In a story that sounds more like a reality TV pitch than real life, a desperate London couple turned to TikTok to find a live-in babysitter for their newborn—and the internet watched every minute of the three-day experiment.
With their regular childcare falling through, Charlie and Leah Corbett faced a parental nightmare: who could look after their baby with zero notice? Their solution was as modern as it was controversial. They took to social media, offering a stranger free accommodation in their plush London home in exchange for 72 hours of babysitting.
The TikTok Audition Process
The Corbett's video plea quickly went viral, amassing over 1.3 million views and attracting a flood of applications. They weren't just looking for anyone; they conducted a rigorous screening process right there on the platform.
"We had to sift through hundreds of replies," Charlie explained. "We looked for experience, genuine warmth, and someone who just felt right." Their chosen candidate was Lucy, a 22-year-old psychology student whose calm demeanour won them over.
72 Hours Under One Roof
For three days, Lucy lived with the family, taking on full babysitting duties. The Corbetts documented the entire experience, from the slightly awkward first meeting to the emotional farewell.
"It was surreal," Leah admitted. "You're inviting a stranger into the most intimate space of your life—your home, with your child. The trust had to be immediate."
The Internet Weighs In: Genius or Reckless?
The experiment has sparked a fiery debate online. Supporters have hailed the couple for their innovative, community-driven approach to solving a common parental problem.
However, critics have been swift and severe, labelling the stunt as dangerously naive. Concerns have been raised about the lack of formal background checks, the potential risks to child safety, and the blurring of lines between professional childcare and internet-fuelled arrangements.
A Sign of the Times?
This bizarre story highlights a deeper issue facing parents across the UK, particularly in cities like London: the crippling cost and scarcity of reliable, last-minute childcare. For many, the traditional routes are closed, forcing desperate measures.
While the Corbetts' story had a happy ending, it serves as a stark warning and a fascinating case study in the lengths parents will go to, and the new, unregulated worlds they are entering to find solutions.
