WHAT IS AN AU PAIR?

An Au Pair is a single person between the ages of 17 and 27 without any dependants. They come here to learn English as part of an English speaking family. They are not domestic staff or employees but are a cultural exchange – they live as part of your family, join you for meals and have their own bedroom and receive a minimum of £70 pocket money per week . They help with childcare and light housework for 25 hours and can also do two evenings of babysitting.

It should be remembered that an Au Pairs cultural experience with children can be limited and that they are not trained nannies or childminders. AU PAIRS SHOULD NOT HAVE SOLE CHARGE OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 2.

Your au pair should have 2 free days per week and should be free to attend language classes and Religious services if desired. They should be provided with their own bedroom and full board and lodging as part of your family.

They can stay in the UK for a maximum of 2 years and if from a non EEC country, they are not permitted to take a normal paid job in this country. Light household duties are accepted as part of an Au Pairs arrangement and are not regarded as employment.

AU PAIR PLUS

Au Pairs from EU countries can do more hours by mutual agreement. You and your Au Pair should agree between you the additional pocket money for the extra hours. Normally £85+ for 30 hours

Mother’s Help – These applicants have more relevant experience and can be given more responsibility. They work 40-50 hours per week, plus babysitting 2/3 evenings per week. They receive £130.00 - £180.00 per week and get 1 – 1 ½ days off per week. They still live in your home and have their own bedroom and full board and lodging. They are expected to be at home looking after children normally whilst the mother is at work, or helping the mother in a busy household. They have a combined housekeeping role and can be asked to keep the house clean and tidy, do some cooking and shopping, do laundry and ironing, etc. They generally work between 8-10 hours per day. Most Mother’s helps are aged 20+ and must have previous childcare experience. Depending on their experience, they may be able to have sole charge of toddlers and school-aged children. As they are generally not formally qualified in childcare, this is at the discretion of the parents. The wage of a Mother’s help varies a great deal on age, experience, ability to drive, etc. but the recommended starting figure of £130.00 per week after tax.