My current rate for night support or in-person newborn care is €35 per hour or £30 per hour for one baby. Twins are charged at a higher rate, usually around €40 per hour or £35 per hour, because caring for two newborns takes more time, more focus, and more energy. Consultations start from €250 / £250. This includes the questionnaire, the consultation call, which usually takes around 1.5 hours, and a follow-up email with what we discussed. Anything extra depends on the family’s situation and what kind of support is needed.

Yes, there is a deposit for every booking. The deposit secures the agreed dates in my diary. Until the signed agreement and deposit are received, the dates are not confirmed. The amount depends on the type of booking, the length of support, the location, and how many nights or weeks are being booked. The deposit is non-refundable, except in very specific situations that are covered in the agreement.

Payment is agreed before the booking starts, so everyone knows what is expected. For single night shifts or occasional nights, payment is usually made at the beginning of the shift, or prepared the night before. In the morning, parents are often half asleep or sleeping, and I do not want payment to become one more thing to think about. For regular weekly bookings, payment is usually made weekly. For longer bookings, the payment structure is written into the agreement before I start.

Most clients pay by cash or bank transfer. We are living in a current world, so I am open and flexible with other payment methods depending on the family’s situation, the currency, the location, and the booking itself. Payment details are always discussed before the booking starts. Any transfer fees, exchange fees, or banking charges shall not be deducted from the agreed fee.

For night support, there are usually no travel costs unless paid parking is needed, or parking is not provided and I need to pay for safe overnight parking. For 24-hour care, rota placements, travel support, or international bookings, travel costs are covered by the client. This can include flights, taxis, airport transfers, public transport, parking, petrol, travel between homes, accommodation, meals, drinks, snacks, and room service if needed. For travel bookings, all of this is discussed before the booking is confirmed, so there is no confusion later.

For night support, I usually bring my own snacks and drinks. I always ask about allergies, cultural preferences, or anything the family does not want brought into their home. It is helpful to have still bottled water and something simple like fruit, dates, or nuts available, just in case I need something during the night. For 24-hour care or travel support, the family is responsible for food, drinks, snacks, and room service if needed during the booking.

Yes, I need a private room when I am caring for the baby overnight. This can be the nursery, a spare bedroom, an office with a proper bed, or another private room where the baby can sleep safely near me. I do not care for a newborn overnight in the living room, sitting room, on a sofa, on a blow-up bed, or on a day bed in a common area. For 24-hour care, I need a comfortable bed and proper bathroom access. Ideally, this is a private bathroom, but if that is not possible, we can discuss what is available.

Yes, if it is discussed and planned as part of the booking. I have travelled with families many times, especially when families want newborn support during a holiday, family trip, or time away from home. Travel support is usually 24-hour travel support, not normal night support. Flights, accommodation, meals, drinks, room service, transport, working hours, rest time, and the baby’s sleeping arrangements are all discussed before confirming. I love travelling with families, but it should not be arranged last minute. Ideally, I need at least two weeks’ notice, and one month or more in advance is better.