Nannies and babysitters in London
Care in your own home, around your own routine - from a full-time nanny to a sitter for one evening. Every person we place is interviewed by us, DBS-checked by us, and referenced by us.
A nanny provides childcare in your own home, either full-time, part-time or on a temporary basis. Earnest Care places nannies and babysitters across London, all holding an enhanced DBS certificate, paediatric first aid training and two verified references. Emergency and overnight cover is available at short notice.
What we place
Full-time and part-time nannies
A permanent nanny working set days in your home, sole charge or alongside you. We handle the shortlist, the checks and the introductions; you make the decision.
After-school nannies
School collection, tea, homework and bedtime routine. The most requested arrangement among working parents in London.
Newborn and maternity support
Experienced help in the first weeks, including night support, for families without local family around them.
Babysitting
One evening or a regular slot, with the same sitter wherever possible so your children know who is coming.
Emergency and short-notice cover
A childminder falls through, a nursery closes, work explodes. We hold a pool of pre-vetted sitters for exactly this.
Nanny share
Two families, one nanny, split cost. We help structure the arrangement so it does not fall apart in month three.
How we vet the people we place
This is the part of a nanny agency's job that actually matters, so here is exactly what we do - ask any other agency for the same list.
- Enhanced DBS certificate with children's barred list check, seen in original and verified, not accepted as a photocopy
- Two references from previous childcare employers, taken by phone rather than email, because people say things on the phone they will not put in writing
- Full employment history with every gap of more than a month explained
- Right to work in the UK verified from original documents
- Paediatric first aid certification, in date
- Face-to-face values interview including scenario questions on safeguarding, discipline and managing conflict with parents
We reject the majority of applicants. That is not a boast, it is the job.
Nanny or nursery?
A nanny is usually the more expensive option for one child and the cheaper option for three. Beyond cost, a nanny gives you flexibility, care in your child's own environment, and help with the household side of child-rearing. A nursery gives your child a large peer group, guaranteed cover, and a structured early years curriculum.
Families with an anxious child, unusual hours or more than two children under five generally find a nanny works better. Families who value socialisation and predictable cost generally prefer nursery.
Other child care services
Day nursery
Full and part-time places from 9 months to school age, following the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Learn moreAfter-school club
Collection from school, a hot tea, homework support and play until you finish work.
Learn moreHoliday club
Full-day cover through every school holiday, with trips, sport and creative projects.
Learn moreChildminding
Small-group, home-based care with the same familiar adult every day.
Learn moreSEND support
Inclusive provision with 1:1 support, EHCP experience and close work with your local SEND team.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
Are your nannies DBS checked?
Can I get a babysitter at short notice in London?
How much does a nanny cost in London?
Do you offer overnight childcare?
What is a nanny share and does it work?
Let's talk about what your family needs
A short, no-pressure conversation is usually all it takes to work out the right kind of support. We will be honest with you if we are not the right fit.