When should I start looking for a childminder?

[Mambear]

I need a childminder in London for the beginning of September.

I have called a couple, and the ones who have spaces want you to pay a retainer fee of half the full weekly fee - I cannot afford this as it is all of my maternity pay.

Does anyone have any advice on what I should do? Should I hang back and start looking closer to the date I go back to work to avoid a lengthy retainer fee? Or, should I look for one that has a space in September?

Help!

Unfortunately if you want to book a space you will have to pay a retainer. Unless there is a childminder who knows she'll have somebody leaving in August and she'd like a new child to start in Sept but you'll have to pay a deposit now to hold the place for you.
Alternatively you can look nearer the time but then the choice may be very limited ...

hi Mambear, where about in london are you?

Mambear, I am not far from De Beviour.I live just off Old Street roundabout. If this is any good my email is citychildminder at yahoo dot co dot uk