We had a disappointing experience with this nanny, particularly regarding her reliability and communication.

Following three successful trial days caring for our eight-month-old son, we agreed that she would begin working with our family in October. We felt comfortable with her, believed we had found a suitable nanny and, on that basis, stopped searching for alternative childcare.

However, just three days before our return to London and her anticipated start date, I contacted her to confirm the agreed working days and times. It was only then that she informed me she had accepted another career opportunity that she could not turn down.

Whilst I fully appreciate that she was not contractually bound to us and was entitled to pursue other opportunities, I found the manner in which she handled the situation extremely unprofessional and inconsiderate. She did not proactively inform us of her change in circumstances, and I am left wondering when she would have communicated her decision had I not contacted her first.

What makes the situation even more disappointing is that I have since noticed her advertising herself as available for full-time nanny work, five days a week, which has raised further questions for me about the transparency of her communication with us.

Her last-minute withdrawal placed our family in a very difficult position, leaving us scrambling to find alternative childcare with virtually no notice. Anyone who has searched for a nanny for a young baby will appreciate the time, effort and trust involved in finding the right person.

Although our experience with her during the trial days was positive, unfortunately, the way she handled our subsequent arrangement has significantly undermined our confidence in her professionalism and reliability.

I understand that circumstances change, but I believe that honesty, timely communication and consideration for families relying on childcare arrangements are fundamental qualities in a professional nanny.

I am sharing this experience so that other parents can make an informed decision when considering childcare arrangements.