Frequently Asked Questions for Parents
Harmony at Home provide expert advice and tips to parents looking to hire a nanny or using a childcare service. Through our many years of experience and links with industry experts we have complied a list of the most frequently asked questions so that you can quickly find the answer. Our advice and tips are edited regularly, and we are always adding to them, so if you can’t find the answer here please do contact us and will be delighted to help you personally.
You can also find more helpful guides, tips and advice on our childcare blog. Our blog is written to keep you up to date with relevant childcare topics and help you understanding the ever growing wealth of information available on the internet about hiring a nanny. We hope that you enjoy reading our blog.
Can a nanny be self-employed?
Under rules from the HMRC, nannies cannot generally be classed as self-employed. A nanny can only be classed as self-employed if working in a series of temporary positions, or if working for 3 or more families at the same time.
Do I become an employer?
Yes If you employ a Nanny you become an employer.
What is the difference between Net and Gross?
Net: Refers to the amount remaining after adjustments have been made such as debts, deductions for tax and NI and expenses Gross: Refers to the total amount inclusive of tax and NI
Should I agree to pay my nanny in Net or Gross?
Please agree to pay your nanny a Gross salary. Employment in the UK is discussed as a Gross salary. Using a gross salary will protect the Nanny employer’s employment costs.
Can you suggest some interview questions?
Questions to consider asking when interviewing a Nanny:
What questions should I not ask when interviewing?
- What do you most like about being a Nanny?
- Why did you decide to become a Nanny?
- What do you think makes a good Nanny?
- What activities do you most enjoy doing with children?
- What sort of meals would you prepare for children? Give me an example.
- What childcare qualifications do you have?
- Do you have a current, in date Paediatric First Aid certificate?
- Are you confidently able to deal with emergency situations? Give me an example.
- What are your views on discipline and manners?
Discriminatory questions should always be avoided. The following subjects should not be discussed or asked at interview;
How do I check that my new nanny is eligible to work in the UK?
- Age
- Political views
- Health
- Disabilities
- Gender or sexual orientation
- Race, ethnicity or natural origin
- Religious beliefs
- Marital status
- Questions about the Nannies family or future family planning
Please use the eligibility checker: https://www.gov.uk/legal-right-work-uk
How do I calculate Holiday Entitlement?
If your nanny works on a full-time basis 5 days a week, they are entitled to 28 days’ holiday per year including bank holidays. If your nanny works on a part time or ad hoc basis their holiday is calculated pro rata. This is done by working out the number of days or hours the nanny works per week. If your nanny works bank holidays as well, their holiday leave will be different from other part time nannies. The Statutory Holiday Entitlement is 5.6 weeks per annum or 28 days per year inclusive of bank holidays.
What should be included in an employment contract?
- Full time Nanny, working 5 days a week X 5.6 = 28 days’ holiday per annum
- Part time Nanny, working 4 days a week X 5.6 = 22.4 days’ holiday per annum
- Part time Nanny, working 3 days a week X 5.6 = 16.8 days' holiday per annum
- Part time Nanny, working 2 days a week X 5.6 = 11.2 days' holiday per annum
- Part time Nanny, working 1 day a week X 5.6 = 5.6 days' holiday per annum
As soon as you find your perfect nanny it is important to draw up an employment contract. This is not only a legal requirement but also means that protection is in place for the employment rights of both you (as the employer) and the nanny (the employee). We can provide you with a draft template.
Do I need Employers’ Liability Insurance?
Yes. Under the Employers’ Liability Act 1969, it is a legal requirement that all employers must have and ensure that their policy covers them for a legal minimum of £5m. In the first instance we suggest contacting your household insurer, as you may be able to add this to your existing household insurance policy. You can also take out a specialist insurance policy, if you contact us we can recommend a leading expert.
What is the workplace pension scheme?
Please don't panic about setting up a pension, we can recommend a leading payroll provider who can assist you with auto enrolment for your nanny.
