how much is a CM in central London?

[becstarlitsea]

Background: I might have to have surgery at some point in the next few weeks - not certain, but am making plans for DS so that it isn't a last minute panic and so that when I break the news to DH I can tell him that I've taken care of all the practicalities. Since DH will freak out with worry about me, it will be one thing I can take off his plate!

I am SAHM, and usually do the school run (just one DS). There's a CM who picks up at the same school who seems nice. I've never spoken to her but have overheard her talking to the kids she collects, and the kids seem very happy. I don't know for sure whether I'm actually going to have to go to hospital. But when I do know, I'd like to approach her to see if she would do pick up and drop off and look after DS until 6pm until I've recuperated (if I have surgery it will be at least 12 weeks booking for her, maybe a bit more if I need further treatment). I just wondered if anyone could tell me how much it's likely to cost - we're in central London (zone 2)? I don't want to ask and then go if her rates are actually very reasonable. Are there any questions I should ask her? I've never used a CM before although DS has been to nursery.

Thanks very much in advance, never been in this topic before so hope I'm not going against etiquette somehow!

childcarefinder.direct.gov.uk/childcarefinder/ can be used to search for childminders - some will publish their fees

I'd expect to pay £6 or more per hour

Thanks EldonAve. Bet you have had to post that link so many times for greenhorns like me... So it's particularly kind of you to bother - big thanks!

Sorry can't help as Im in Yorkshire, but this must be a really worrying time for you and I wish you well.

Sally xx

I pay £5/hour in Surrey. I guess rates might be a bit higher in London?

I pay £10 per hour cash, and I understand that us the going rate for casual CM in Central London. But I could be wrong! HTH

We're in Lewisham and the rates round here vary, especially it would seem for before/after school. I know of people who pay £3.50 an hour right up to £6. At one point I was paying £20 a time for an afterschool collection, tea etc. and incredibly flexible service - it was out of desperation!

I also know cms that charge from £3.50 ph up to £5.50ph in Surrey around me.

You could also try your local Netmums as childminders also advertise on there too.

Have a look at www.childcare.co.uk I'm looking for a childminder and it's great.

Im a childminder in a medium sized village nr St Albans, Hertfordshire, and I charge £4 an hour.
I under stand if you live in St Albans or Harpenden what you might call a mini town you can pay up to £7-8 per hour!!

i briefly used a childminder in zone 1, that was £35/day. The rates seem to be roughly £30 to £50/day in zones 1 and 2. Hourly rate could be £3.50 to £6 or so.

I just found a truly lovely CM who has quoted £70 a day. She seems perfect. Is £70 extortionate though? (Inner London)

I would not be surprised to be honest. I am in SE london and many CMs are now charging £50 per day.
Which borough are you in? The local early years team should be able to give you some idea as to going rates.Or try posting on your local NM site as they all have childcare boards

Most childminders around here (Camden area) are £7 per hour, so £70 for a 10 hour day is normal.

10 hour day
and £7 per hour

Hi, I am based in Blackheath (Zone 3) and I charge £7.50ph or £45 for a full day. Hopr this helps!