Do all babysitting apps run DBS checks on their sitters?

No - and this is one of the most important things to understand. Some platforms require sitters to upload a DBS certificate; others make it optional and display it on profiles so parents can filter by it; and some don't handle DBS at all, leaving it entirely to parents. A DBS is one useful signal, but good platforms layer multiple checks on top of each other rather than relying on any single one.

How does a babysitting app make money?

Most platforms charge fees on top of the sitter's hourly rate. These typically include a booking fee and a trust and safety fee. Some also offer subscription tiers for parents who book regularly, which reduce per-booking fees in exchange for a monthly or annual payment. Sitters may also pay a percentage of their earnings to the platform on each completed booking.

Can I use a babysitting app for last-minute childcare?

Yes - this is one of the main advantages of app-based platforms over traditional agencies. On Bubble, care can be booked with less than 30 minutes' notice in many cases, and on average eight sitters apply to each job posted. Some platforms also offer an instant book option for confirmed immediate availability, though this usually requires a minimum amount of advance notice.

How do I know a sitter's reviews are genuine?

On well-built platforms, reviews are only generated at the end of a completed, paid booking - so they can't be left by people who haven't actually used the sitter. Reputable platforms also follow up on negative reviews rather than simply posting them, which means the review system functions as an active safety tool rather than just a passive record.

Is my payment information safe on a babysitting app?

Reputable platforms use industry-standard payment processors and encryption to protect card data. Your card details are not stored directly by the app - they're held by the payment provider, operating to PCI DSS security standards. Platforms like Bubble also hold ISO 27001 certification, meaning their entire data security system has been independently audited.

Are babysitters on apps self-employed or employed?

On most UK childcare platforms, including Bubble, sitters are self-employed. They set their own rates, manage their own availability, and choose which jobs to apply for. They are not employees of the platform or of the parents. This means they have a great deal of flexibility about when and how much they work.