How much should I charge for childminding and helping around the house?

[KarmaArseBite]

A friend of mine has asked if I can help to look after her 1 year old as she is about to give birth to her second. She has asked if I can start with 2 mornings per week to then increase to 3. She was going to employ a nanny but has said she would much rather have somebody she knows and trusts and also somebody that her little boy knows.

She will also need help around the house with housework and making lunch for her 1 year old. I am not a childminder but do have children.

I will take her DS to local groups/classes so he can mix with others and take him for walks etc, to give her time at home with the new baby.

I have no idea how much to charge. I will drive to her each day - only 8 miles away but I suppose I have to take petrol into consideration, plus cost of play groups etc.

Any advice would be much appreciated, thank you

This type of position is generally called a mother's help rather than a childminder (childminders look after children in their own home and are governed by a whole host of regulations).

You would usually be an employee, and must be paid at least National Minimum Wage but might expect more (depends on where you are and how much the family want you). You would not expect to pay for play groups etc. but would usually be given a 'kitty' to pay for these, and you would claim mileage (often at the maximum tax-free rate of 45p per mile) for journeys with the cared-for child, but not from your home to work which is not allowed.

yes a childminder works from their own home and have to be ofteded

if you plan to look after the child in your own home you will need to register and then you will be self employed (reg can take up to 6 mths)

if you plan to look after the child in their own home then you are a nanny and are employed and this will be what MrAnchovy has said

hi just a note of caution, do you think your friendship can survive her effectivly employing you??

I never child mind for friends as for me it blurs the boundaries..

each to own though.