Where do you find a nanny?

[ElleDubloo]

Currently in early pregnancy but planning ahead. We're likely to need a live-out nanny working weekdays 07:30 to 18:00.

I've done a bit of Googling, and so far I've found there are several options for finding people:

• Gumtree: Possibly dodgy? How do you ensure safety and qualifications?
• Special sites e.g. childcare.co.uk: Seems more reliable than Gumtree, but once again, are they safe?
• Professional agencies: Often need to pay a premium.

Just wondering if anyone has any tips :)

Also, if you only have one baby, up to the age of two, is it better to put it in a nursery or with a nanny?

I don't think there is a 'better', it's more a case of finding what's right for you and your family based on your circumstances. From what age will you need childcare? How much can you afford? Would you prefer someone to be in your own home? What happens if a nanny is ill? Do you want your baby to be with other kids? My dd is in nursery and I have no experience of babies, but it's worth drawing up a list of pros and cons based on your own situation.

As a guide. A live out nanny in London for those hours will be looking at £35k ish. Look on nannyjob. Agencies generally charge 15-20% of nanny annual wage as finding fee. Ie greycoat are good but charge 20% I think. So £7000 few based on £35k wage

My 2 have been to nursery. I have to say that a huge amount of my parenting stress comes from whether I'll be able to leave work in enough time to pick them up. Our nursery runs 730-1800 and it still gets a bit hairy at times.

Dd is 10m and been at nursery for 2.5m. She has been ill since she started - colds, ear infections, hand foot mouth, the usual. I've had to take a day off for her already. But, nursery are great, she's happy and my son learnt brilliant social skills from going.

You'll almost certainly end up with more time off with a child sick off nursery than an ill nanny but you never know.

Friends with nannies have either had a recommendation (ask about, nannies all seem to know each other, so if you have friends with a good one, ask her) or used an agency.

I really don't think there's one right answer. But with those working hours (presumably leaving half an hour before and getting back later) I'd go with a nanny.

Useful things to consider are nanny share and nanny tax and finances. On average, here, having a nanny costs a little over twice what a nursery costs.

Maybe go and see a few nurseries and see what you think. Be warned though, I booked for mine at 12 weeks pg, the good ones book up early. If you're unsure, put a deposit down and hold that place! If you don't like the environment, you'll have your answer.

Thanks everyone! Very helpful advice.