A proxy parent is a professional who temporarily assumes the role of a parent, providing full-time care and management of a child or children in the parents' absence. Proxy parents step in when parents are travelling, working abroad, or unavailable for extended periods, ensuring the children’s daily needs, routines, and well-being are maintained. Unlike a nanny, a proxy parent takes on the full parental responsibility, often living in the family home during the assignment.
A proxy parent's duties extend beyond regular nanny responsibilities, as they take on the role of a temporary guardian. These include:
-Full Parental Responsibility: Making decisions in the parents’ absence, ensuring the child’s well-being, safety, and emotional support.
-Day-to-Day Care: Managing all aspects of the child’s daily life, including preparing meals, school drop-offs and pick-ups, homework help, and bedtime routines.
-Routine and Structure: Maintaining the child’s normal schedule, such as after-school activities, appointments, and social engagements, ensuring a smooth and consistent routine.
-Communication with Parents: Providing regular updates and staying in close contact with parents to keep them informed about their child’s progress and well-being.
-Household Management: Overseeing household duties related to the children, such as tidying their rooms, organising play areas, and ensuring a smooth home environment.
-24/7 Care: Offering round-the-clock care and support, including overnight supervision and emergency handling, while the parents are away.
A proxy parent typically works 24 hours a day, as they are responsible for the child’s care at all times during the parents' absence. This includes:
Round-the-Clock Supervision: They are usually on call throughout the day and night, providing immediate care as needed.
Agreed Rest Periods: Despite the full-time nature of the role, proxy parents are usually entitled to a minimum of 4 hours of rest per day, although these breaks may be flexible depending on the family’s needs and the age of the children.
The salary of a proxy parent reflects the high level of responsibility and continuous care they provide. Salaries vary depending on experience, qualifications, and the length of the assignment.
Daily Rates: Proxy parents in London can earn between £250 and £400 per day, with higher rates for those with significant experience or multiple children to care for.
Weekly Rates: For longer-term assignments, proxy parents typically earn between £1,500 and £2,800 per week, with salaries potentially exceeding £3,000+ per week for highly experienced professionals or complex assignments.
Accommodation, meals, and other expenses are usually provided by the family during the period of care.
Happy Hugs
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.