Please bear with me, I've searched and read all the threads I can find on the subject but I'm still not quite sure ...

I don't currently have enough children to need to take on an assistant but I have a friend who is interested in registering as my assistant if/when that should happen in the future. I am considering registering her as my assistant for emergencies in the meantime.

Firstly, she has a child of her own. What do others do in this circumstance? Do you charge for the child and do you charge the same as your other children or a reduced rate?

Secondly, I don't imagine I will be in the position where I am able to offer set days of work - sometimes I will want/need an assistant and sometimes I will not - can I take her on as an employee on a zero hours contract or is self-employment (for her) a better or viable option?

Thanks in advance x