Does this sort of childcare/housekeeper arrangement exist?

[beanandspud]

I am trying to work out whether there is any way I can take on some additional responsibility at work. I know I will need additional childcare but I have no idea whether what I think I need actually exists or whether I would be laughed at for suggesting it. I have a certain amount of flexibility with my hours but travel a couple of days a week and also have some overnight stays - the days vary from week to week.

What I think I need...

A nanny/housekeeper who would work about 10 hours a week on a regular basis doing some general housework/ironing/childcare. However I would need someone who could also pick up DS(5) from school a couple of evenings a week, give him his tea and put him to bed (so possibly working until about 8pm when either myself or DH get home). Obviously I would pay extra for that.

A couple of days a week I work from home so wouldn't need any help but these are not regular days.

I realise that this sounds as if I just need someone who could be at my beck and call which isn't really the case but wondered whether anyone ever wants a job like this or am I deluding myself that it might be possible?

Au pair? Only if you have space and can handle someone living with you.

They won't do heavy housework but will take on stuff relating to your DS, flick a duster round/Hoover and keep things tidy andd as your DS is school aged that may eliminate the need for additional childcare.

Would love this, the job & you sound lovely! Where do you live? If close to Stoke Newington in North London & would like to meet, please get in touch. I'm a local qualified nanny looking for a job 3-5 days a week. Committed to the children in my care by involving them in fun, stimulating age appropriate activities in a safe, happy & loving environment.

Pm me if you need childcare & would like to meet up.

Regards,
Karen.

Unfortunately I'm not in the South so it could be a long commute Karen but thank you!

DH and I talked about an au pair as we do have the space but I don't think either of us would cope very well having someone living with us, no matter how nice they might turn out to be.

In terms of housework I am thinking along the lines of hoovering, changing beds, ironing and sticking a bit of bleach down the loo!

We have recently advertised for something similar and been flooded with responses. 3 days per week, cleaning, dog walk pick up youngest two from school make tea, take to swimming lesson etc. One of us would be home earlier to put to bed. We are paying £10.00 an hour. Applicants fell into two camps - older ish so late 40s to late 50s ladies and then mid-20s with one kid. We have gone for a lovely older lady as she could offer more flexibility and possible help over school holidays.

So I'm sure you will be able to find someone.