| For those who feel they have 'the best nanny in the | | | | An employer; be it in childcare agency in London or |
| world', count yourself lucky and do everything in your | | | | otherwise; is required to have a written statement in |
| power to hold onto them! For those who've had some | | | | place detailing the job description, working hours, pay, |
| issues in the past, either with sourcing a good nanny or | | | | annual leave, notice of termination etc. It is also |
| tackling managerial or financial issues once the nanny | | | | advisable guidelines are included detailing exactly what |
| is working, here are some tips to lighten the load. | | | | responsibilities your nanny will have and what your |
| Source a suitable Nanny | | | | expectations are regarding her duties. Think carefully |
| There are various ways to hire a nanny in London. | | | | about how many hours you will need your nanny to |
| Through an agency is the most obvious choice | | | | work, additional babysitting, weekend work, live in/live |
| because they should have a large database of | | | | out arrangements, smoking rules, house guest rules etc. |
| suitable, fully vetted candidates for you to choose | | | | It will make your employer/employee relationship much |
| from. Although there will be a cost involved most | | | | easier if these guidelines are clarified from the start. |
| agencies do offer a refund/replacement policy should | | | | Make sure you're paying the right Tax contributions |
| your chosen nanny not work out. For a reputable | | | | It is vital you adhere to your responsibilities as an |
| nanny agency in your area contact the REC | | | | employer to pay the nanny Tax and N.I. contributions. |
| (Recruitment and Employment Confederation) who will | | | | This can be complicated but doesn't need to be. It is |
| put you in touch. Alternatively, word of mouth often | | | | advisable to contact a payroll agency who will take |
| works well so ask friends and colleagues if they know | | | | this responsibility off your hands for a small fee. |
| any good nannies requiring work. Many nannies in | | | | Alternatively, contact your tax office or call HMRC |
| London register their details on websites that allow you | | | | Employer Helpline (as above). |
| to contact them for a very reasonable cost. If you go | | | | Keep an eye on working hours |
| down this route, ensure you fully reference check | | | | If you require your nanny to work longer than 48 hours, |
| them and confirm qualifications etc. You may also | | | | ensure you have an agreement in place signed by |
| want to organise a police check which can be done | | | | both parties. |
| through the Criminal Records Bureau. | | | | Ensure you have the right insurance. |
| Check out your legal responsibilities | | | | Childcare in London is often great fun with lots to see |
| As an employer you are required by law to pay the | | | | and do to entertain the children. However, as with any |
| nanny her wages, including Tax and N.I. contributions. | | | | major city, it can be hazardous and in the unlikely |
| You must also adhere to certain employment | | | | event your child or nanny may be in an accident, |
| standards. In brief, these include paying your nanny | | | | ensure your nanny has up-to-date insurance so you |
| correctly, providing a written statement, payslips, annual | | | | are fully covered. Specific nanny insurance may include |
| leave and maternity pay (if applicable). Contact the HM | | | | public liability, third party cover, and legal expenses. If |
| Revenue and Customs Employer Helpline 0845 60 70 | | | | required to drive, make sure he/she is included on your |
| 143 for guidance and advice. | | | | motor insurance. |
| Draw up a contract | | | | |