How to source a nanny agency

>about the parks, playgrounds, daily events and
Finding a nanny can be a long, arduous anddirections etc.
sometimes unsuccessful process. Using a nanny4. Safeguarding
agency in London to assist in this process mayProper safeguarding procedures are critical for a
relieve some of the stress. It is, however,reputable nanny agency in London. The agency
important to make sure you find a reputableshould perform face-to-face interviews, check
agency to ensure you are hiring the right person.eligibility to work, proof of identification and
If you were to type 'nanny agency in London' intoreferences. They should also have the ability to
a search engine you will find hundreds of agenciesorganise a Criminal Record Check (CRB) if their
so how do you know which ones are the mostnannies don't already have one in place.
reputable and suited to your needs. Here are a5.
few tips:6. Customer service
1. REC registeredIf you contact a few nanny agencies, keep note
The Recruitment and Employment Confederationof which agency responded with the most
regulates and monitors the recruitment sectorefficiency. This will give you a good indication of
and all members are required to adhere to certaintheir efficiency throughout your dealings with
standards to ensure they have thoroughthem. Also, make sure you are happy with any
safeguarding processes in place.questions or concerns and that these are dealt
2. Word of mouthwith in a professional manner. Ensure they send
Talk to your friends, colleagues, and children'syou Terms of Business so you can be clear on
school/play centre to see if they have anythese. All reputable agencies should not charge
recommendations. Alternatively, ask an ex-nannyyou anything until a nanny accepts your job offer.
who might have registered with a few nanny7. Trust your instinct
agencies.Even if you feel the agencies are meeting all the
3. Local can be beneficialnecessary requirements, be guided by your
A nanny agency doesn't have to be in London ifinstincts as to which agency feels like it's going to
that's where you live but it can certainly help.be trustworthy, reliable, helpful and efficient
Even more so, if it's in your area. These agenciesthroughout the process. Any reputable nanny
are likely to have nannies on their books who liveagency will want to help you as best they can
locally and know the area well. If required to planand this should come across in your dealings with
and organise days out with your children, thesethem.
nannies should already have excellent knowledge