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Finding a nanny with an agency

2 replies

dekari · 05/03/2015 07:15

I recently moved to Wales (monmouthshire) from Bristol and need to arrange a nanny for my 3 LOs from September. Having looked online, I haven't found many nannies in our area that meet our requirements and we don't know anyone in the area to ask for recommendations. I have found a local nanny agency - they charge 2.5 times the nanny's weekly salary and will find a replacement if the nanny leaves within 8 weeks. Does this sound reasonable/standard? I was happy just to liaise with them via email (they have a very good website with lots of info etc.) but my hubby thinks I should meet them face to face - partly to check that they are kosher. Again, not sure whether this is standard practice? Is it a good idea to meet with them to discuss our needs as this is our first nanny hunt!?

I'd also appreciate any general advice/tips about finding a good nanny. It feels like a huge undertaking and pretty daunting at the moment...

TIA

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Blondeshavemorefun · 05/03/2015 07:48

Yes rates sound usual if not a tad lower then some - some
Charge 3/4 weeks gross salary

By all means meet agency. I have always said IT would be nice for agencies to meet all families ESP those with live in jobs

  • but not always possible

Hope you find someone

nannynick · 05/03/2015 12:15

The fee sounds low compared to what agencies charge in my area.

Be clear what the fee is,

Is it 2.5 x the nannies take home pay

Is it 2.5 x the nannies gross pay

Agencies should put forward suitable candidates, they may just put forward one. This is a good sign, not a bad sign, as the last thing you want is an agency that just puts forward everyone. You want them to sift through applicants and only put those forward who meet your criteria.

Look at the nannies CV and if you feel it does meet your criteria, then arrange to interview them. Trust your gut instincts. Ask about any gaps in employment history. Ask about what they enjoyed in their last job. Ask about what they like doing on a typical day whilst nannying.

Check references - call them - ask about reliability/time keeping, trustworthiness.

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