It is obviously disappointing for us that she believes that our methodology is not 'terribly professional and, as such, has no credibility'. Ms Elder is, of course, entitled to her view, but we believe that the simple 'Helen Test' is a great indicator of the level of professionalism of the childcare agency that is being tested. For example, if nanny agencies are failing one of the most basic requirements and not checking references or, even worse, suggesting embellishments to a carer's CV, we do not believe that they should be in business.
Our understanding is that Ms Elder feels it is unfair of us to test the agencies on an undercover basis. We would be delighted to discuss with her any alternative methods that she feels would be more suitable, but we do not believe that we would get as true and accurate a picture of the agency if it was forewarned.
I should point out that not all agencies that pass the test choose to be listed on our website, so you cannot infer that because an agency is not there it has failed. What parents can be sure of, though, is that the agencies that are listed have passed and have not suggested to one of our testers that she add a few years' experience on to her CV.
Sally Harrison
Director, BestBear Childcare
