Babysitters

There is no law which states the minimum age that a child can be left alone but it is an offence to leave a child alone when in doing so puts the child at risk. The NSPCC recommend that most children under 13 should not be left for more than a short period and that no child under 16 should be left overnight. They suggest that parents consider the following before deciding to leave a child alone:

• The age of the child
• The child's level of maturity and understanding
• The place where the child will be left
• How long the child will be left alone, and how often
• Whether or not there are any other children in the household

Further advice on good practices when leaving children alone can be obtained by looking at the RoSPA or NSPCC websites (search for babysitting) or by ringing the NSPCC helpline on 0800 800 5000.

Registered Childminders

As babysitters are not 'registered' and there are no regulations to govern this type of childcare, we do-not hold lists of these people. However, we do hold lists of 'registered childminders' and some childminders may be willing to do some evening or weekend babysitting. Parents may also wish to find a sitter by asking a friend or a relative with children for a recommendation or by searching the web for babysitting agencies. Should you use a babysitting agency, it is important that you are clear as to how they vet their sitters, for example, do they interview and take up references and do they complete a CRB check (Criminal Records Bureau)?

Both the NSPCC and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) recommend that babysitters should be over 16 years of age and that parents ask for at least 2 references and contact the referees themselves. RoSPA also suggest that parents complete 'risk assessments' and to think through all possible eventualities before leaving their children with a babysitter. Further tips on good practices when using a babysitter are available from both the NSPCC and RoSPA.

For further details of Nanny and Babysitting services in Torbay and Devon, visit the Devon Council Council website - DCC - Nanny & Babysitting Agencies.