Facebook and instant connections, it’s no surprise that more and more families are turning to Facebook groups to find a nanny. It can feel quick, easy, and more affordable than going through a professional agency. But at what cost?
As Chair of the National Nanny Association, I’ve become increasingly concerned about the rising number of informal nanny hires taking place on Facebook — not just because of the risk it poses to families and children, but also because of how it undermines the professionalism of the nanny industry itself.
Let me explain why this matters, and what you should know if you’re considering hiring a nanny — on any platform.
The Facebook Recruitment Boom: Why It’s Happening
There’s no denying that childcare is expensive, and agency fees can feel like another financial hurdle. Many families believe they can save money by hiring directly, often posting in local Facebook parenting groups or responding to nanny ads.
But while this may seem like a shortcut, it often bypasses important safeguarding, legal, and employment steps. In fact, we’re hearing from both sides — families confused by what’s expected of them, and nannies who feel mistreated or exploited after finding jobs through social media.
Nannies Are Speaking Out — And It’s Time to Listen
Recently, a number of professional nannies have raised concerns in Facebook groups about how they’ve been treated by families who hired them informally. From unpaid trial shifts and lack of contracts, to late payment and unclear expectations — these experiences are unfortunately becoming more common.
When hiring is done without structure, boundaries, or proper agreements, both parties suffer. But ultimately, it’s the children who are caught in the middle — and they deserve better.
The Legal Side: Families Become Employers
Here’s what many don’t realise: if you hire a nanny in your home, you’re not just “giving someone a job” — you become a domestic employer. That means you’re legally responsible for:
- Providing a written employment contract
- Paying at least the National Minimum Wage
- Setting up PAYE and making tax and National Insurance contributions
- Providing employer’s liability insurance
- Enrolling your nanny into a pension scheme (if eligible)
- Giving paid annual leave, sick pay, and respecting maternity rights
Without this structure in place, families could find themselves facing HMRC penalties, disputes at tribunal, or breakdowns in the employment relationship.
Safeguarding and Standards Matter
Agencies exist for a reason — they carry out safeguarding checks, verify qualifications, and ensure only suitable, experienced nannies are put forward for roles.
When hiring via Facebook, families often skip vital steps:
- No Enhanced DBS check
- No first aid certificate
- No verified references
- No face-to-face interview or trial day
- No guidance on contracts or pay
Would you send your child to a nursery without checking the staff’s qualifications? Of course not. So why take the risk at home?
Can’t Afford an Agency? There Are Safer Alternatives
We understand that not every family can afford agency fees. But if you can afford to employ a nanny, you must also afford to do it properly — for everyone’s sake. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Use vetted platforms like Childcare.co.uk Army of Nannies, or Yoopies, which allow you to see DBS checks and reviews
- Always check references and ask for certificates (DBS and first aid)
- Consider a nanny payroll provider to stay compliant and reduce stress
Here are some respected UK nanny payroll services:
These companies will manage tax, NI, pension contributions and provide payslips — taking the complexity out of being a domestic employer.
What Good Looks Like: A Safe and Fair Nanny Hire
If you’re hiring without an agency, use this checklist to protect your family — and treat your nanny professionally:
✅ Enhanced DBS certificate (dated within 1 years or on the update service)
✅ Paediatric first aid certificate (renewed every 3 years)
✅ Two verified written references
✅ Right to work in the UK
✅ Clear written employment contract
✅ Payslips, holiday pay, pension setup
✅ Employer’s liability insurance
✅ A respectful, communicative working relationship
Final Thoughts: It’s About Respect
Hiring a nanny is a big decision. It’s about trusting someone with your child’s wellbeing, safety, and development. If you can afford to hire a nanny, it’s only fair — and legally necessary — to hire responsibly.
Nannies are not casual babysitters. They are skilled, trained professionals who deserve fair pay, respect, and the security of proper employment. When we cut corners to save money, it often comes at the expense of trust, safety, and stability for everyone involved.
If you need support or guidance on hiring a nanny safely, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the National Nanny Association. We’re here to help families and nannies work together in respectful, legal, and professional partnerships.