From high-pressure careers to a highly rewarding franchise, Home Care Preferred ticked all the boxes!

From high-pressure careers to a highly rewarding franchise, Home Care Preferred ticked all the boxes!

Franchisee Carole and her business partners, a family member and two friends – one of which she went to school with – had been discussing going into business together for several years.

After assisting with caring for a terminally ill relative, Carole saw firsthand what good-quality care at home looked like, and how well it worked when caregivers were compassionate, professional and treated clients with dignity.

Following this experience, Carole and her partners decided to look at purchasing a care business with which they can make a difference within their community. Here, Carole discusses the experience and why it was a good decision.

What did you do prior to opening a franchise and why did you change careers?

I worked as an IT consultant for 20 years. I loved my city job, but I wanted something that would give me more freedom to enjoy life. I changed to a career in care and, recently, our franchise business was born.

What do your business partners bring to the business?

A combined experience of over 30 years within the care industry, including studying community development and public policy, working in social care, managing mental health services, and managing children’s services; we are all able to offer our knowledge and experience.

What appealed to you about franchising to start with?

We initially wanted to open a care home, although, after investigation, we realised it was too costly. We met with Home Care Preferred and decided that a franchise was a better fit, as it comes with the brand, experience and support, which is invaluable.

Why did you decide on a Home Care Preferred franchise?

We looked around and we did our research but it really came down to values. Caring for my family in the past led me to understand that it is the quality of care that makes the experience and we want to be able to give this to our community. What really sold the franchise to us were Home Care Preferred’s values, company ethics and ethos – they surpass its competitors’.

How did you find your experience of opening a franchise?

So easy! Home Care Preferred was more than accommodating and we never felt rushed to make our decisions. I think there has been a lot of negativity surrounding the care sector, but Home Care Preferred is breaking those stereotypes to uphold the best in care.

How have you found the support from Home Care Preferred?

Great so far! We are really enthusiastic to start working on our new venture and the ongoing relationship that will develop with the team at Home Care Preferred.

What are the challenges of becoming a franchisee?

Starting your own business can be very difficult, but we have great support from Home Care Preferred and that gives us great comfort.

How will you use this business venture to improve your work-life balance?

I think it’s important for all of us to have a good work-life balance. We’ve all had high-pressure jobs in the past and recognise a need to change our lifestyles. We’ve agreed to look out for each other’s wellbeing. We will make sure we take time off and step in to cover when required.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering a franchise?

Find your market and do your research. Don’t be afraid to walk away from something that doesn’t feel right. We contacted other franchisors but didn’t see a good fit. When we came across Home Care Preferred, the synergy was instant, and after we conducted our own research, we knew they were right for us.