Babysitters
A Babysitter is someone who will occasionally look after your children - perhaps an afternoon here and there, or in the evening, so that you can have a night out. Choosing a babysitter is just as important as choosing any kind of childcare and you have to be as rigorous in your vetting of babysitters as you would be with any nanny. They will be left in sole charge of your children and, even if it is only for an hour or so, you have to be utterly sure of their competence.
There is no legal minimum age, but the NSPCC says they should be more than 16. If you use a babysitter under 16 and the child is injured in their care, you may be held responsible. So, choose babysitters carefully and ask for references if you do not know the person well
| Qualifications: | Babysitters don't have to be qualified but if you are hiring someone through an agency, who you have never met before, it is a good idea to ask for a nanny, nurse or teacher so that you have peace of mind knowing that they have experience. |
| Fees: | The cost of employing a babysitter differs - prices range from £4 to £10 an hour. You are responsible for your babysitter's travel costs and, if it is late when you return, you should pay for a taxi for him/her to get home. If you want your babysitter to stay all night negotiate an overnight fee in advance. |
| Other Information: |
The leaflet 'Home Alone' advises parents looking for babysitters Remember:
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