Most parents who use Bubble know that there are significant benefits to keeping sits on the app.
However, we know that a small minority have asked sitters to book off the app to avoid paying fees to Bubble. It can feel awkward to push back, but it's not in your interest to agree, and there's a straightforward way to handle it.
Why it's worth staying on the app:
Sits booked through Bubble are covered by up to £1 million public liability insurance in the unlikely event something goes wrong. You also have access to our customer success team, who can check payments, mediate disputes, and step in if you need support. None of this applies if a sit is arranged off-platform.
Beyond protection, it's also a terms of service issue - users who arrange sits outside the app risk permanent removal from the platform.
What to say:
All this considered, it can still be tricky to know what to say if asked to go off the app!
It doesn't need to be awkward. Something like this works well:
"I'd love to sit for you, but I need to keep everything booked through Bubble - it protects both of us with insurance and makes payments easy and secure. Happy to sort it through the app!"
It’s not worth jeopardising the opportunity to find other work through Bubble, or risking the protection of our insurance and mediation.
What if the parent isn't on Bubble yet?
If you know a parent outside the app and want to work with them, the best option is to refer them using your unique referral code. They'll get £10 off their first sit, you'll earn £10 credit, and importantly, no platform fees apply on any sits you do together once they sign up through your link. It's a great way to bring existing relationships onto the platform without either of you losing out!
If a parent is persistent or you feel uncomfortable, reach out to our support team at support@joinbubble.com and we can step in and have the conversation with them directly.