[suffolkclean]

We have employed staff before and had 4/5 working for us at one time when we were providing regular domestic cleaning. Cleaners left for other work and we never replaced them as we no longer provide that service. We've had quite a few problems with the staff in the year we employed people - staff crying at a customers front door one evening cos custy complained, one trying to poach our customers, one lastest 4 days, one just never turned up after a hard days work previously and it goes on. Tried job agency route but they never turned up or were polish and couldn't understand a word of english.

Anyway we do a lot of end of tenancy cleans and need an extra pair of hands now and again, can't give an employee set hours per week. Anyone got any suggestions on what we can do, not sure anyone would want a 'as & when required' job + we are a bit worried about taking someone on, as we seem to get stung by who-ever we've had working for us in the past.

[Colin Stokes]

I dont want to criticise but perhaps it is your recruitment process and induction/training that needs to take some of the blame for your experience with staff.

We always interview at least twice to make people return, take at least 2 references and then on day 1 provide full welcome pack, Company Handbook, Health & Safety Policy and COSHH and PPE information and draft contract.  All those are then thoroughly explained prior to them receiving their uniform and then having a tour of all relevant sites.  Day 2 they start to clean with full supervision (usually me or fellow Director if no other staff available) then day 3 & 4 less supervision with finally Day 5 going solo before sitting down for end of initial week interview to sort any arising issues.

That said still been stung a few times (but not too many).  We have done this since we took on first employee 3 years ago and now have 20 altogether.

We did find, in the past, several staff on an "if and when basis" BUT we had to guarantee a certain amount of hours per month and they would guarantee availability say Mon -Thurs 10am - 3pm.  It seemed to work for several parents with children at school.

[suffolkclean]

Hi Colin

I totally agree - I think in the past we've been so desperate for an extra pair of hands. We have to have a procedure for employing. I have even paid £50 for Full CRB Check and cleaner lasts 6 months. Is there any chance you would beable to email me a copy of some of the paperwork you use to give me an idea of the wording and how it should be done!
Thanks
Barbara