Au pair visa could spell the end

Anyone who has had an au pair will know that they will typically be in their late teens, Western European and taking a break from academia to improve their English and their life skills. They will usually assist with light housework and childcare. As Brexit approached, families who rely on au pairs for providing flexible childcare became increasingly anxious. As agents we were unable to reassure them, as enquiries were all met with the same response from the Home Office – that there would be no dedicated route or visa allowing au pairs to come to the UK. This has apparently changed and au pairs are now eligible for a ‘skilled worker’ visa. Yet we are baffled at how typical applicants would be able to afford the costs required or how families would be able to pay them the minimum salary of £25,000.

It would appear that a programme that has benefited many people for the past 50 years is being scrapped without a second thought. We sincerely hope that the Government will reconsider and grant a dedicated route for au pairs, so that this vital service can continue for years to come.

Dr Ruth Campbell,