We've never used a babysitter but a lady who used to work at my son's nursery has talked in the past about babysitting and I've said I might call on her if we need one.
Only thing is, I dont know what the "rules" are - she would come to our home whilst we were out (we trust her implicitly so that's not in debate here) and I'd be happy to say help yourself to crisps, drink, food etc aswell as the tv. DS would be asleep (he's 2.5) so she'd pretty much just be listening out should he wake.
How much are babysitting rates or what is reasonable to offer?