subject: Recession Means More Families Are Hiring A Live In Nanny [print this page] News this week indicated that petrol prices had risen above the record highs of 2008 to more than 120 pence per gallon. It made headline news but it hardly came as a shock. Instead it was simply another example of the progressive increase in the cost of living that is putting young families under strain. As personal and domestic budgets come under pressure more young mothers are having to return to work earlier than they had hoped in order to make ends meet. As a result more of them are turning to a live in nanny to take care of the children.
For many this seems like the only solution to a difficult problem, but it is something you should consider carefully before you make a decision. The first issue is cost. By taking on another job you are obviously bringing in another wage and that has to be no bad thing. However, you will also incur costs. How much will the live in nanny be paid and will the net gain be worth it?
As the employer you take on certain responsibilities. In particular you must conform to national minimum wage guidelines and deduct national insurance contributions. The level of pay depends on the location. In central London, for example, it can be as high as 400 pounds per week. That reduces in other areas, but even so it can be a considerable cost to take on.
On the bright side the cost of a live in nanny will be significantly less than one that only comes to your home during working hours, but you will have to provide accommodation.
That in itself leads us on to the next consideration. A live in nanny will be living in your house and working with your children. Therefore you need to tread very carefully.
Reputable agencies should perform their own background check, but you should still do your own research. If nothing else, insist on meeting candidates beforehand. Judge them not only on ability, but also personality. If all goes well she or he will become like another member of the family. As such you need someone with a personality that is compatible with both yourself and your children.
A live in nanny can help busy working parents keep control of their work life balance. As long as you take adequate care over making your selection, there is no reason a busy life means making sacrifices for your family.
by: Dominic Donaldson
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