For every parent who opts to use a Nanny Agency there's another who has tried advertising direct - probably on a specialised Nanny or childcare web site. Obviously initially it's more expensive to use an Agency - with many agencies quoting fees of over £1500; so, at a time when we are all looking to save money, why should parents still consider making that investment?

The main reason is that families who don't use an Agency generally pay over the odds in the long term. Our research shows they pay an average of £1 more in hourly rate - over £2000 a year! Agency fees vary, but at Little Masters and Misses we believe in affordable childcare and our maximum fee is only £550, making advertising direct a false economy. And that's before you've taken into account the many other benefits of using a reputable Agency.

Registering with an Agency gives parents immediate access to a database of interviewed and reference checked nannies looking for work. The Agency staff will be knowledgeable about the Nanny industry and qualifications and will also have verified candidates' employment history. They will probably send out a selection of CVs relevant to the requirements of your post within 24 hours. With internet advertising, parents tell us they have been bombarded with emails or phone contact from unsuitable candidates and then had to plough through numerous CVs, checking employment histories and researching a variety of qualifications.
This can be confusing and time consuming.

Once you have chosen your Nanny, the Agency will manage the contract and salary negotiations and be available to provide ongoing support and advice. And in the very unlikely event that your Nanny doesn't work out, then reputable agencies often offer partial refunds for an initial period - now you don't get that on t'internet!