Nursery World - Agencies face pressure to police-check nannies

Nanny agencies will be required to confirm to parents that prospective nannies are suitable for working with children, under new employment agency regulations announced last week. The move is part of legislation covering more than 500,000 temporary workers including office staff and actors. The rules are expected to come into force during the summer and are the first reforms in this area for 20 years.

The move is part of legislation covering more than 500,000 temporary workers including office staff and actors. The rules are expected to come into force during the summer and are the first reforms in this area for 20 years.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry, the new regulations will offer 'stronger protection' for parents using nanny agencies. Employment and equal opportunities minister Margaret Hodge described the reform as 'excellent news for parents'. She added, 'Agencies will have to take all reasonable steps to ensure that nannies are suitable for working with children. They will have to offer parents copies of at least two references.'

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