How much more expensive is last-minute childcare?

Last-minute babysitting is typically more expensive than pre-planned childcare because sitters have less notice to rearrange their schedules. Expect to pay 10-20% more per hour than standard rates for same-day or evening bookings.

Can I hire someone without a DBS check?

DBS checks aren't legally required for babysitters in the UK. Many sitters have them, but it's not essential. What matters more is that they've been vetted through background checks, references, and parent reviews.

What if the sitter cancels on me at the last minute?

Using a platform like Bubble helps - you're notified immediately and can see other available sitters. With informal arrangements, confirm with your sitter a few hours before to catch any changes early, and have a backup plan ready.

Is it ever too last-minute to find a babysitter?

On-demand platforms mean even 30 minutes' notice isn't impossible - sitters get real-time notifications. That said, shorter notice means narrower options. Plan for at least an hour if you can, to give sitters time to respond.