Morning all - just came on this thread this morning and have to admit haven't managed to read all the posts but will come back to it.
I am currently in this situation -nanny has been out for the last two weeks with pregnancy problems.
I think the reason these threads become heated is that - yes nanny/childminder/aupairs get sick - but if there is no back up arrangement then it is difficult for the employer also.
I have had to take two weeks off to look after my children. I run a business and have had to cancel appointments, meetings etc... However if anyone in my business is sick it is not so bad because the work gets done anyway and everyone mucks in. But it is different when you have one childminder with no back up.
Sick pay should form part of the written contract. In my contract sick pay was not included - it is quite clear and both nanny and signed off the contract in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths. However all is not lost she does actually get credit through her Tax Credits so she will have some income for the two weeks out.
I fully agree that it is a difficult situation to be in - we don't all earn megabucks - but we just have to get on with it.
I never expected the situation to arise but it has and we are dealing with it and just have to sort out some back up arrangement if she is sick again and also to cover her maternity leave.