Shahla

Unreliable

Shahla is a kind person, and we appreciated that she was always punctual during her time with our family. Initially, everything seemed promising—she committed to working four full days a week with agreed responsibilities, and we even turned down other strong candidates based on that commitment. However, within less than a month, things became increasingly unpredictable. Just three days in, she informed us that she didn’t want to continue. Then, she agreed to work only half days. Although we adjusted to this sudden change, it was challenging. A few weeks later, her availability changed again to just three half days per week, and she mentioned that she would stay until the end of the month, or possibly 1.5 months, to help us find a replacement. But just three days after that, she cancelled entirely, each change coming with little more than a day’s notice.

As full-time working parents, this constant uncertainty has put tremendous pressure on us. We’ve had to scramble to find last-minute arrangements multiple times, adding unnecessary stress to our already demanding schedules. While Shahla is a kind and punctual person, her repeated changes and lack of reliability have left us feeling disappointed and exhausted in a way we didn’t expect.

• Overall

by Elly about shahla on 11/11/2024

Response by shahla on 11/11/2024:

Thank you Elly for your review but not all of the above is entirely correct as I initially informed you that I wouldn't be able to continue and commit to the full 30 hours straight after I had completed the trial hours and before I actually started with you.
The reasons I gave were that I felt it was going to be too much for me with my other childcare commitments to another family and taking care of my grandkids so you were aware of my situation but you didn't accept my notice and offered me part time doing four mornings 9am till 12pm and were not willing to give me the hourly rate of £15ph as I had accepted 30 hours at £14ph and there was a considerable drop in hours so I felt that it was fair to ask.
I agreed to try the morning hours and see how I felt but when you asked for constant monitoring when I was out with your toddler it was a bit surprising as I have never come across having to keep my Live Location on my phone at all times when I am taking him to his regular play groups and then to send videos every 20 minutes and I would get a text from you if it had been more then half hour!
This all made me feel very anxious and for two weeks I didn't know how to react and thought maybe it is just an initial thing and would stop
You then wanted to change the timings slightly after the clocks changed and/or if he had had a restless night as you wanted to put him down for his nap earlier, there by reducing my hours further.
The only thing I can say is that lack of communication was definitely a factor and that I did initially give you one months notice but then felt I couldn't complete it as I was getting extremely tired and if the constant monitoring is a requirement of yours then you should communicate it on your profile or at the interview process as some nannies may not be comfortable with this.

I sincerely apologise for any disruption this has caused and I hope you find a suitable candidate for your child as he is adorable and we did form a bond in the time I was with him.