Bad form?

[SuiGeneris]

I have just heard that a nanny that potentially meets our requirements (happy to be part-time and live out, educated, speaks relevant language) is available and looking for a position.

However, she used to work for a lady I know very slightly: we met once for a meal months ago and our children go to an activity together. I understand the nanny has already given notice to that family.

So, is it bad form to speak to the nanny with a view to interviewing her for our role? I am inclined to think not, as she has already given notice, but would welcome your expert views. It is possible that this family's child will continue to do the activity with my child and that the other family's mother and I might come across each other socially.

Also, while taking up references I would obviously want to speak to her latest employers. Any suggestions on how to approach them (bearing in mind that I do not know why they are parting company) would be welcome.

Thank you in advance!

If she has already given notice I wouldn't call it bad form, however you are right in thinking it may make things awkward. Obviously you would need to know the reason she is leaving.

Bad form would be more if you had approached this nanny with a view to poaching her but tbh you cannot poach a nanny why is happy in all aspects of their position. Make sure you get both sides of the story as to why she is leaving though and hopefully they will match. Both employers and employees can be spiteful over that one.