Families choose nannies or au pairs for many reasons. They may be a suitable option if you work at times when other forms of childcare are not available. You could have a live-in nanny or a daily nanny or even have a nanny-share arrangement where you share with another family.

Au Pairs are often single young people, who come to the UK from other countries to study English and, whilst staying with families, help in the home for a maximum of five hours a day. They must have at least two full days off each week, and be provided with meals, an allowance and their own room.

In most instances nannies or au pairs won't be OFSTED registered so you will have to make sure you have taken all the necessary checks you need to, including checking out your responsibilities as an employer.