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Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

How to find a mother’s helper

28 replies

NeedingAHand · 12/01/2026 00:00

I need an extra pair of hands with my 1 yr old for a few hours here and there on a temporary basis while I catch up with some things. I’m at home so not looking for nursery, a nanny or ongoing childcare, just occasional support so a mother’s helper feels like the right fit.

Facebook mum groups seem to be the obvious route but I’m quite private and have a lot of acquaintances on there. I’m also a bit wary as similar posts often get flooded with self promotion.

For those who have used a mother’s helper, how did you find them without relying on Facebook? Are there other routes people have found work well?

I’d also appreciate a sense check on what a fair hourly rate is in the South East and what qualities or experience are most important to look out for.

Any insight appreciated. Thank you.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
keepingsanity · 12/01/2026 11:21

I got mine from childcare.co.uk some nanny’s may be flexible if they don’t have a full schedule

2025anon · 13/01/2026 15:17

FolioQuarto · 12/01/2026 08:08

It was quite a few years ago now but in similar circumstances I used a nanny agency. Not all the nannies on their books wanted full time or regular work, and we got exactly the type of person we needed.

We also used a student who was studying childcare at the nearby FE college. She was happy to do odd hours and earn some cash.

A mum with triplets I used to know paid an older neighbour to give a few hours help each week. I think the neighbour had grandchildren but not living nearby so she loved the opportunity to be with children and had a lot of experience.

Can I ask which agency you used?

many thanks

Renisenb · 23/01/2026 21:48

You can apply to have a Norland nanny trainee. It’s free you just have to be there with them

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