What is it?

How much can I earn?

 

Tips for success
 

  • As a care provider, you will be made - or broken - by the quality of the staff you provide. Care workers tend to move around a lot as many are part time, do several jobs and are, of course, in demand. Make sure you maintain staff numbers at all costs. 

  • It is much less easy to get good staff than it was 10 years ago, but don’t be forced to take anyone you can get. This isn't just about your reputation as a provider it is about being responsible for caring for some of the most vulnerable people in society. Check everything about a potential employee - verbal testimonials, references and so on – no matter how long it takes.
     
  • One franchisee advised against recruiting family and friends. This obviously depends on your family but in a business where reputation is so important, in the interests of harmony it's probably best to recruit strictly by merit.
     
  • This is not an industry that will bring passing trade, so you need to get out and make your name known. Advertising is expensive and most franchisees say that it isn't cost effective. However, you definitely need to get accreditation with social services and the local authority - there is no guarantee of business but you can't get any from them without.
     
  • This business is about legwork. Initially, you will need to do your homework on your chosen area to make sure there is enough work to be had there. And then there will be continual appointments to see potential or existing clients to ensure business keeps coming in. Be prepared for the long haul since getting your name known won’t happen overnight.
     
  • It is essential to maintain client feedback, finding out what the client wants and whether they are satisfied with the level of service. Everyone from the old lady at home to the hospital matron needs to feel that they are being listened to - or they will take their business elsewhere.
     
  • You have to care about the business without getting too close to the operating level. Obviously, if one of your carers can't turn up for some reason you will need to deal with it. But this is no reason for everyone in the office to drop everything to fill in. You need to remember your other responsibilities