How do I find a nanny in London?

The main options are: a traditional London nanny agency (which handles vetting and shortlisting for a fee), online job boards (where you do more of the legwork yourself), personal recommendations through local networks, and childcare apps like Bubble for flexible or regular care. Which route suits you depends on whether you need full-time permanent cover or something more flexible.

How much does a nanny cost in London per hour?

London nanny rates are higher than the UK average. Based on Nannytax salary index data from November 2025, the average full-time live-out nanny in London earns approximately £21 per hour gross. On top of this, you pay employer's National Insurance, pension contributions and paid holiday, which can add roughly 15-25% to your overall cost. For flexible on-demand care through platforms like Bubble, rates vary by carer - the UK-wide average on Bubble is approximately £15.50 per hour as of 2026.

Do I need to do a DBS check on my nanny?

There is no legal requirement for parents to conduct a DBS check on a nanny they employ directly. That said, many parents reasonably want to see one - particularly an Enhanced DBS. You can ask a candidate to apply for their own DBS, or use a third-party service. Some childcare platforms, including Bubble, display DBS status directly on carer profiles.

What are my legal obligations when employing a nanny?

You become a formal employer, which means you must register with HMRC and operate PAYE, provide a written employment contract, pay at least the National Living Wage, take out employer's liability insurance, and auto-enrol your nanny in a workplace pension if eligible. Most families use a specialist nanny payroll provider to manage the HMRC side of this.

Can I use Tax-Free Childcare to pay for a nanny in London?

Only if your nanny is Ofsted-registered, which most nannies are not. If your nanny is not registered, you cannot use Tax-Free Childcare for their wages. It is worth checking whether your nanny would consider registering, as this can make a meaningful difference to your costs.