Babysitters

[TerrariaMum]

When I was growing up, my mum would hire a local teenager to look after us during the summer. Everything was very informal, but I understand things have changed or perhaps are different in the UK.

I am in search of someone to help look after my children a few mornings a week and I do have someone in mind, but I don't know what I need to do in order to pay her. My mother just paid cash in hand every week, but I'm not sure that's acceptable now. Does anyone know or could you point me in the right direction to find out what I need to do?

Thank you

Childcare in the UK is unregulated between 6pm and 2am, so when people say they use a babysitter, it tends to mean evening care.

If you were to have someone on a regular basis, same day, same hours, then that is likely to be employment.

If you have someone on an ad-hoc basis, no commitment to come, then that may be self employment.

Local teens do still babysit, ask at community groups/church.

That would still be fine as an ad hoc thing over a holiday.

If you are looking for someone to come to your home, say two mornings a week, every week, then you are probably looking for a mothers help. If you will not be home at that time, then you may be looking more at a nanny. Up to you how much childcare training/experience the person has.

Are you looking at having someone a couple of mornings every week? Would that person have another job they do elsewhere? If so, then register as an employer. If it will be their only work, then you will probably be paying below the amount HMRC require you to register at, think it's 111 a week. Look up: Lower Earnings Limit for Class 1 National Insurance.

Get the person to sign something saying it is their only job.