Grobags has found a nanny - questions please!

[grobagsforever]

Hi all,

Some may remember my other threads, I've been searching for a nanny since loss of DH a month ago. I've found a good candidate and she has accepted the role. It's her first nanny role as she has been working in a nursery until now. Some questions if anyone can help:

1. Are nannytax a good option for payroll and contract support? They seem pricey but comprehensive.

2. Nanny will work 45 hours per week. 40 hours will be on four fixed ten hour days, the remaining five to be agreed each week e.g an evenings babysitting. Should I calculAte her holiday based on a four day week or in hours?

3. how much detail to include in contract re nursery duties etc?

4. any other top tips for contracting?

5. Any tips for helping her settle in?

Many thanks!

Sounds like people really take the mic Eyeore.

A few do, most are great employers like my first ones and my current ones, but the job I had in the middle def opened my eyes and made me realise a few things.

Definitely agree to being paid on time. Too many times I have had parents give me a lump of cash on payday because they forgotten to set up standing order - totally useless for my DDs going out! Also once got paid 11 days late because family went on holiday and 'forgot to do it before they went'.

I would also say, give your nanny lots of freedom with deciding what to do each day - days out, crafts, that sort of thing. It's nice to know you can arrive at work, see the sun shining and make a last minute plan for a day at the beach, that kind of thing.

You already sound like you are being thoughtful though so don't fret too much.

How are you doing grobags?

1. Are nannytax a good option for payroll and contract support? They seem pricey but comprehensive.

I use them and have never had an issue although not had to call on them for much.

2. Nanny will work 45 hours per week. 40 hours will be on four fixed ten hour days, the remaining five to be agreed each week e.g an evenings babysitting. Should I calculAte her holiday based on a four day week or in hours?

Hours

3. how much detail to include in contract re nursery duties etc?

I'd put a reasonable amount in - if you make clear what you are expecting as an non exhaustive list expecations are clear. If you want anything more household then add that in expressly eg my nanny unloads dishwasher, puts tesco online shop away.

4. any other top tips for contracting?

make sure your notice provisions are clear. Consider whether you're giving bank hols on top of other leave. Add an express confidentiality provision in. Agree an overtime rate.

5. Any tips for helping her settle in?

If friends have nannies, get them introduced. If she doesn't know the area, show her around. Give her clear details of classes attended, local friends. Tell her how much communication you want if she is sole care during the day.