Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I know what type of child carer will work best with my requirements ?

Full details about different types of child carers, what they offer, their skills/abilities and what an employer can expect can be found on our services we offer page. If you prefer, you can contact of our consultants to discuss in detail.

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Cost involved in hiring a Nanny/Mothers Help or Housekeeper

When employing a candidate through Nanny Smart, the following two costs are involved:

The candidate’s salary: as an employer you are responsible to pay the salary direct. All terms will be agreed before the placement commences, for example: rate of pay, weekly or monthly salary. When discussing and agreeing salaries, it is very common to discuss NET pay. As a domestic employer, you will have the same duties as a commercial employer and are responsible to pay the Nanny’s Tax, NI and Employers contribution.

Use the following link to calculate the true cost: calculator

Agency Introduction Fee: Once an offer has been made to one of our candidates, you will be liable to pay the agency introduction fee. Please see our Agency Fee’s for full details.

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As an Employer, what other responsibilities do I have ?

The law requires you to place an employment contract and provide your employee with regular pay slips. Employee’s know their rights and respect their employers if they are treated rightly which will affect their working relationship in a very positive way.

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If my Nanny is off sick, do I have to pay sick pay ?

The first 3 days, it is under the employer’s discretion to pay. On the 4th consecutive day, and thereafter, the Nanny is entitled to S.S.P (Statutory Sick Pay) of £79.15 per week. The Inland Revenue, depending on the length of time, can reimburse S.S.P. This is in their discretion.

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As an Employer, do I have to pay Maternity Pay ?

An employee must be employed for 9 months to be entitled to maternity pay. For the first 6 weeks, she is entitled to 90% of her Salary, thereafter, for the next 33 weeks she is entitled to £123.06.

The Inland Revenue will reimburse you all or a large percentage. They suggest you contact them as soon as you know your Nanny is pregnant, as they can provide S.M.P (Statutory Maternity Payment) before the maternity period. The Inland Revenue only reimburse small employers – i.e.: not big companies.

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Tips on building a professional and successful relationship with your employee

Make sure what you expect from your employee is made clear from the start and included in the contract. For example: house rules (using telephone/responsibilities/duties)

Keep a good level of communication. Having 5 minutes chat before and or at the end of the day with your employee contributes to a positive working relationship. If this is difficult, alternately keep a diary as a way of daily communication.

Having reviews approximately every 6 months is a good opportunity to discuss any concerns, views, up coming events, children’s progress etc.

Praising your employee will contribute to a positive relationship, making him/her feel appreciated. Noticing the smallest things like; if s/he helps out with other chores, or has gone that extra mile, will make them feel good.