We’re getting to know our childcare providers

This week, I’ve started meeting the childcare providers who’ve expressed an interest in joining Borrow A Village, and it’s been lovely to finally put some faces to names. We’ve had interest from babysitters, nannies, nursery practitioners, childminders and people with many years of experience working with children. Some are looking for occasional evening babysitting, while others are interested in regular childcare or nannying work. The next step is getting to know them properly.

More than a name on a list

Borrow A Village isn’t going to be a directory where parents have to scroll through profiles and work everything out for themselves. When a family gets in touch, I want to understand what they need and be able to suggest someone who could be a good fit. That means knowing a little about our providers beyond their qualifications and availability. What ages do they enjoy working with? Do they have experience with babies or children with additional needs? Are they looking for occasional babysitting or something more regular? How far are they happy to travel? And, just as importantly, what sort of childcare work are they actually looking for? These first conversations are helping me build that picture.

What happens during onboarding?

The initial chat is just a chance to say hello and find out a bit more about each person. From there, providers who’d like to continue will be invited to complete a more detailed profile, and we’ll work through the relevant checks and references before they can start accepting bookings. It takes a little longer than simply adding someone to a website, but there's a reason for that. I want parents to feel that someone has taken the time to get to know the person they’re being matched with, and I want providers to feel that they’re joining something where they’re treated as people, not just another profile.

Getting ready for October

We’re working towards launching in Sheffield and Chesterfield on 1st October, with the Peak District following shortly afterwards. There’s still plenty to do before then, but it’s exciting to see the network beginning to take shape. If you’re a childcare provider and would like to find out more, you can register your interest through the website. And if you’re a parent who might need childcare, you can leave your details too - it’s really helpful to know what families are looking for as we get everything ready.

Thank you to everyone who’s already been in touch. I’m looking forward to meeting more of you over the coming weeks!