Zulekha's 1 Star Reviews

Disappointing and Unprofessional Experience

At first, she presented herself as warm, attentive, and appealing — the kind of caregiver any parent would feel lucky to find. Sadly, with each passing day, her behavior became more problematic and unprofessional.

She seemed more focused on money than genuinely caring for my child, frequently disturbing me during my work hours for non-urgent matters, despite being fully paid a handsome amount for her services. She even sent me messages about my baby passing a normal poo — something any trained childcare provider should handle calmly without interrupting a parent’s workday.

Her abrupt withdrawal from her duties came without proper notice, using false health concerns about my baby to justify leaving. In reality, my baby was simply teething — a completely normal stage that any experienced caregiver should know how to manage.

If she finds a child she prefers to care for, she will suddenly accuse you and your baby of fabricated “problems,” turning everyday occurrences into exaggerated issues.

What’s worse, she failed to disclose that she had recently undergone surgery, limiting her ability to lift or care for an infant. This was dishonest and unsafe. She even denied that I had signed the contract, despite me having provided all required documentation.

My baby returned home with his first-ever diaper rash under her care, a clear reflection of neglect and poor hygiene. During my hospital shifts, she repeatedly contacted me for trivial reasons, showing no respect for my professional commitments.

I strongly advise parents seeking reliable, sincere, and professional childcare to look elsewhere. I would not wish for any parent to go through what she put me through.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication

by Bisma on 08/08/2025

Response by Zulekha on 10/08/2025:

I'm very sorry you feel this way about your experience, and I’d like to provide a clear and professional response, as several key details have been misrepresented.

Firstly, it's important to note that your child was in my care for only two weeks, during a settling-in period — not under a full-term childcare contract. You signed a settling-in agreement, which, as outlined in my policy, allows either party to end the arrangement at any point during that time. As someone with over 17 years of professional experience, I acted fully within my rights and responsibilities.

Regarding payments: My policies were shared with you before care began, clearly stating that the settling-in period is charged at my standard hourly rate. You were never told — nor was it stated anywhere — that this period would be free. Despite this, you refused to pay me on two occasions, forcing me to issue two formal written requests. Even then, I received only partial payment, and I have not been fully compensated for the care provided.

You accused me of raising unnecessary concerns, but that is not true. Your child experienced an episode of an upset stomach, which I reported to you immediately. As per UK childcare guidelines, I took all necessary and appropriate steps to ensure your child’s wellbeing. The resulting skin irritation was a common side effect — not evidence of neglect or poor hygiene.

You also complained about me contacting you during your hospital shifts. want to make it clear: I only reached out when it was necessary and appropriate, and I do this for all families in my care. You had no issue contacting me while I was working — including video calls and messages — but became upset when I shared anything other than positive updates.

Regarding my own health: At the time, I was recovering from a leg injury, and I had been informed by you that your child did not need to be held for prolonged periods. Therefore, I did not see the need to disclose full details, especially as my qualified assistant (my daughter) was present and actively involved. Your child was always cared for safely and attentively.

The real reason I ended this arrangement, however, was your unacceptable and aggressive behavior in my home. On the final day, you shouted and screamed at me in front of children — something I have never experienced in 17 years of working with families. It was deeply distressing and
inappropriate, and I had no choice but to end the arrangement immediately for the safety and wellbeing of everyone in my care — including your own child.

Lastly, you brought in non-prescribed medication and asked me to administer it, which I declined in accordance with UK childcare regulations and my safeguarding policy. Your response — “I’m a doctor” — does not override the legal and professional standards that I follow for every child in my setting.

This is my business and livelihood, and your review is not only inaccurate but also unfairly damaging. I’ve provided trusted, professional childcare to many families over the years, and I take great pride in the quality and integrity of my service. While I sincerely wish you and your child well, I must also set the record straight for future families who may come across your comments.

thank you,

Zulekha.