Nanny Check
Pre-employment screening for nannies, mother's helps and au pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I consider a background check?
- What does NannyCheck do?
- How is NannyCheck different from a nanny agency?
- How long does it take?
- Do I need the candidates permission?
- What is a CRB?
- My nanny needs to drive- do you verify their licence history?
- What else can I do to choose the right candidate?
Why should I consider a background check?
Working in-home is an extremely serious job which should not be taken lightly. Nannies often have keys to a property, access to security codes and charge cards, and most significantly, sole charge of your children.
A recent survey by recruitment site monster.co.uk* revealed that two- thirds of the British workforce falsify their CV, including reasons for leaving previous roles, qualifications held and salary.
When the safety of your children is at risk a proper background check will establish that the candidate you choose truly has the experience, qualifications and glowing references that is claimed on their CV.
What does NannyCheck do?
We see our service as a convenient and time saving way of 'screening in' a candidate you have already met and selected.
Our system requires your candidate to provide a lot of information that you may not have the time or means to ask for or verify. Our experienced consultants will go over the documents provided in detail, ensuring your candidate holds current, valid papers and references that match information provided on the CV.
We ask candidates to complete medical checks and police checks, including a UK CRB which is an enhanced police report designed specifically for people working with children. We contact referees, qualification institutions, and previous employers to verify data provided. Your candidate will also have a UK driver's licence check completed, which will ensure your security in the event of a vehicle insurance claim.
You will receive a full report outlining the checks that have been initiated and completed. Any areas of concern are clearly highlighted throughout the report for your attention.
On top of this we provide our clients with a free advice line regarding any employment issues that arise with their nanny. As an impartial party our advice is unbiased and so you can expect a clear and honest response.
How is NannyCheck different from a nanny agency?
There is no substitute for using a reputable nanny agency to source and take on candidates. Agencies often have a large pool of candidates well known to the company with long term experience and references.
On top of this NannyCheck does not recruit nannies like an agency does. We solely exist to complete background checks and act as a support function for those of you who choose not to use an agency to find your nanny.
How long does a check take?
A Standard Report is normally completed within five working days, however you will receive interim updates as information is processed. Some checks, including CRB's, qualifications and driver's licence, can take longer to process, with the CRB often taking up to six weeks.
Do I need the candidates permission?
Yes. We abide by the guidelines of the data protection act which requires a signed release form from a candidate before any checks are completed or results are released.
What is a CRB?
A CRB is a UK Enhanced Disclosure Police check. It is specifically designed for those caring for children and goes into a lot more detail than a simple 'name check' on police records.
Unfortunately a CRB does not include international police records for any candidate who has lived overseas. However, NannyCheck has the facility to conduct police checks in many other countries around the world, including within Europe and Australasia. There may be additional costs involved if your candidate requires an international police check.
My nanny needs to drive- can you verify the licence history?
It is an offence to permit a person to drive a motor vehicle if that person is:
a) not the licence holder
b) disqualified to drive
This may influence any insurance claims made should your candidate have an accident whilst driving on the job.
Viewing a candidates licence is no longer a sufficent way of verifying a drivers licence. If your candidate holds a British licence we can produce a full report on driving status and history that will tell you:
- has the driver ever passed a test?
- Is the driver currently banned?
- Is the driver entitled to drive the category of vehicle they will be driving?
- Does the driver have undisclosed points or endorsements on their licence?
- Does the drivers recorded address match?
This applies to UK licence holders only- if your candidate is from overseas in many cases we do not have the facility to contact licencing authorities to obtain full results.
What else can I do to choose the right candidate?
Recruitment and screening We like to stress that your hiring decision should not be based solely on the results of this report. Even an exemplary report does not guarantee future performance.
There are many important factors which should be taken into consideration in order to improve your chance of hiring the right person. Some of these include: age relevant experience, qualifications, interview performance, attitude and compatibility with your family.
During employment
We encourage you to act as a professional employer and provide your candidate with a formal contract in a timely manner once your employment offer has been made.
Honour the agreement set forth, and don't expect your nanny to work extra hours at short notice or for no return.
Be clear from the start what you expect from your nanny, and address any potential issues at an early stage, before they blow out of proportion.
A good nanny/ employment relationship will have clear boundries but still allow for family and nanny to progress together in harmony.
