Frequently Asked Questions
Are your carers DBS checked?
Yes. All Cradle Bean carers are required to have an Enhanced DBS check, alongside reference checks and right to work verification before joining our network. We also require paediatric first aid training for carers working with newborns and young children.
Do your carers have newborn experience?
Yes. We work with carers who have experience supporting newborns, infants, and families during the postnatal period. Experience levels vary between carers, but we aim to match families with someone suited to their specific needs, whether that is overnight newborn care, postnatal recovery support, or ongoing daytime help.
What happens during an overnight shift?
During an overnight shift, the carer focuses on supporting the baby throughout the night so parents can rest more easily. This may include feeding support, bottle preparation, sterilising bottles, nappy changes, settling the baby back to sleep, keeping overnight logs, and helping maintain a calm overnight routine.
Support can also be tailored depending on the family’s preferences and feeding method.
Can I meet the carer beforehand?
Yes. We understand how important comfort and trust are when inviting someone into your home, especially with a newborn. We can arrange an introductory call before bookings begin so families can ask questions and feel comfortable with the match.
Do you support breastfeeding mothers?
Yes. Our carers can support breastfeeding mothers throughout the night by bringing the baby for feeds, assisting with settling afterwards, helping maintain feeding routines, and supporting a calmer overnight environment while the mother recovers and rests.
What areas do you cover in London?
Cradle Bean currently provides postnatal and newborn care services across London. Coverage may vary depending on carer availability and location, so we recommend contacting us with your area and preferred dates.
What makes Cradle Bean different?
Cradle Bean was created around the idea that new mothers should not have to navigate the postnatal period alone. Our approach is inspired by the warmth and support of the village-style care many families traditionally receive after birth, combined with structured professional support and safeguarding standards.
We focus not only on baby care, but also on helping mothers feel supported, rested, and cared for during recovery.
Can I book short term support only?
Yes. Some families book support for only a few nights, while others book ongoing weekly care. We understand that every family’s needs are different, so support can be flexible depending on availability.
What does postnatal support include?
Postnatal support may include overnight newborn care, feeding support, settling routines, emotional reassurance for parents, light baby-related tidying, bottle sterilising, and helping create a calmer environment during the early weeks after birth.
Depending on the package selected, support may also include light household assistance and simple nourishing meals for the mother during recovery.
How quickly can I arrange care?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for due dates and overnight support, as availability can become limited. However, we may also be able to accommodate shorter notice bookings depending on availability at the time.