Best place to find Ayah/housemaid.

Just wondering if there are now any reliable agencies that can supply good domestic help (Ayah/Housemaid)? or is it still somthing that is very much word of mouth, or shopping mall notice boards?
I am going to need help with my young daughter (10), during the week, she will be out of school before i finnish work, so i am going to need someone good at home that i can trust.
Any ideas anyone???

Hi

I not used them myself but have heard good things about Summit Recruitment, based in Karen. There's some info about them here...

http://www.wordofmouth.co.ke/listings/summit-recruitment-training/

Hope that's of some help...

Suz

Check out they are just starting but they are very reliable!

kenyasitters dot com

I must say - this is a tricky one. Some people seem to have huge trouble finding the right help and others just seem lucky and keep the same employees for years.

Taking details from Shopping Centre notice boards can be dodgy, even agencies can be hit and miss since, with the best will in the world, references can be difficult to check out.

The best recommendation is always a personal one, especially from a former employer, or expat leaving etc. I know it's hard when you are new to a place, but if there is any network you can tap into (school, workplace, clubs etc) then do put the word out that you are looking for an ayah and you might be surprised at results.

A lot of store is set on reputation and the issue of trust. As an old time expat - many drivers & ayahs who I might have known for a while, approach me when their employer is leaving because (along with their employer trying to find them work) they would prefer the word goes out personally than put an ad up or go to an agency.