Finding a nanny in Oxford

[GuernseyCow]

Having been let down by our childminder, we're trying to decide whether to put our gregarious but emotional 18-month old DD in nursery, or whether to try and find a nanny. But I'm not even sure where to start. I'd love to hear how other people weighed up these options, and also whether anyone could recommend any nanny agencies that serve Oxford. I should say that our primary requirement is that DD is emotionally secure and happy, but reliability is also vital. Thanks!

I've been in contact with lemonjelly nanny solutions in the past, an agency which covers Oxfordshire. From my (nanny) POV the owner was very helpful and proactive.

You could also search on Nannyjob, Oxford gumtree and (whispers) netmums.

Thanks Frannikin - I hadn't come across Lemonjelly but I'll certainly be trying my luck on Mumsnet!

We used Mums the Word and Emma was great ( we needed a fulltime nanny 24/7 and she found the perfect candidate within 48 hours)! A friend of mine also used them and her nanny is still with her 4 years later/

Pickie, may I ask, why do you need a nanny 24/7? Just curious really!! I can never work out why people want this much cover?

sure, DH had a near fatal accident and was on ITU/trauma for a month and instead of going to a home I looked after him at home. Nanny worked from 8am to 8pm 7 days a week (2 nannies).

I'd say a nursery is more reliable as nannies do get ill and have no back up whilst a nursery has....

Hmmmm yes but you also need to consider how many children you've got, the total cost of Nursery care and the fact that if your children are ill the nursery won't accept them.

very true SPS