recommendations for finding mothers help

[claralou]

I'd really welcome any recommendations / experiences with finding mothers help support for a new (2nd) baby.

I have a 3 year old and will have our 2nd baby in March and am just thinking ahead to getting a bit of help.

Ideally I'd like to find someone to introduce into our family in Jan, so there is time for my 3 year old to get used to them before the baby comes.

How have people gone about advertising - on here / gumtree / elsewhere / word of mouth?

What's the going rate (i.e. for an extra pair of hands alongside me, rather than sole charge; mixture of childcare & household help)?

Any tips in terms of selecting i.e. interviews, references, trial period, contract etc?

Do I need to worry about anything like NI, tax etc (like with nannies) or is it cash in hand like babysitting?

Thanks in advance for any insights!