We've found our AP, what next?

[tillythefilly]

We've just confirmed our AP, who will be starting in 3 weeks. It's only a short term arrangement (6-8 weeks), to see if we like having someone around, before we take on an AP for a longer stretch.

What do you guys suggest now?
I need to send her some sort of formal letter, and maybe a written guide of some description?

We are really relaxed and flexible (I'm at home all day), have a 1 yo DS and 3.5 yo DD, so there won't be much of a routine as such, apart from the usual meal times/ bedtimes etc.

We are quite rural, with some public transport (she knows this), so not masses of easily accessible days out unless I take her by car.

Thanks ladies

So you need a copy of her passport, to check that's she's eligible to work in the UK and a "letter of introduction" - which is basically an au pair contract and states, hours, pocket money, holidays, expectations (so how long the contract is, notice periods, smoking, keeping their room clean and tidy.) Their room, what tasks they'll be expected to undertake, you can also re-iterate that they won't be able to get out and about by themselves much.

I also ask for a police check (but I don't think you have time for that), but I'd also ask for a reference from someone - a vicar, previous employer, teacher etc.

I've never asked for a copy of their passport but have only had EU citizens so the right to be in the UK doesn't come into it.

I have always had a contract that clearly outlines what they are expected to do and how much they'll get paid etc. In addition , when they arrive I do a list of 'rules' and expectations, including saying what I expect them to do on each day at certain times. This now works well as although it seems very prescriptive, it means there are clear expectations on both sides and an easy routine to follow. Given au pairs are generally young, this saves hoping that they'll know what to do and can actually just get on with things!

@InvisibleWomenMustBeRead you still need to check. Au pairs aren't counted as employees, but they are as workers and you can be fined for having a worker that isn't entitled to work in the UK.
Someone may be living in a country, but may not have full citizenship, so you need to cover yourself by taking a copy of their passport.

I've seen the passports but never taken a copy. If we get another in future then I'll bear it in mind, thanks.