When to look for nanny?

[Merrow]

DS2 has some underlying health conditions which mean he shouldn't attend nursery, so we've found ourselves in the uncharted territory of contemplating a nanny. We've literally never considered this, so are at a bit of a loss on how to begin. Is it like nursery where you organise it as soon as possible or more like a month's notice? I know of childcare.co.uk, is that the best place to find someone? Is there an idiot's guide?

I would suggest looking 2-3 months in advance. Most nannies know when their role is ending and start looking before the end of their role. I have been on childcare.co.uk for years ,but haven't found it good personally, most of my jobs are through nanny agencies/local Facebook groups.

That's great, thank you!

Nannyjob.co.uk is also quite a good website if you are happy to sift through CV's of people who apply otherwise you could try a local agency. I agree 2/3 months ahead is a good amount of time most nannies will need to give 4-8 weeks notice in their current job

2-3 months ahead is perfect. Childcare.co.uk and my local childcare Facebook group were the best sources of leads.

Look at nanny agency but they’ll be a few

Agree with 2-3 months. Most nannies have 1-2 month’s notice so will look before then. We always use childcare.co.U.K. - all the nannies on agency books tend to be on there anyway.

This is all really useful, thank you

Agree 2/3mths. I always had 2mths notice in my contract

When do you need someone

Agencies are good but obv cost but if you need someone asap they can find temp nannies

Is it medically advised he should not attend childcare or because of requiring procedures like tube feeding etc?

No, it's not urgent! He has a lung condition and long term prognosis is improved by reduced exposure to illnesses at a young age, so we're looking to avoid nursery.

Childcare.co is where I advertise as a nanny and have found jobs on there easily. You can join for free so I would suggest advertising straight away with your requirements so nannies are aware of you. I tend to cover temporary jobs so I would look at future dates 4,5,6 months in advance, even a year if I know my temporary job will run until then.