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This week our blog comes from Louise Pen-Collings, the franchise manager of the Plymouth franchise who began working as a home helper in September 2013, initially with just one client who needed help with shopping and wanted some company …
Sarah, myself and all of our Franchisees at a recent training course
“We got on really well and I loved our weekly grocery shop to the M&S food hall. My client base gradually increased and by March 2013 I was assisting 4 different people with their daily lives. Tasks included; cleaning, shopping, dog walking and providing transport to and from hospital appointments. My days were always varied and working on a self-employed basis suited me.
I loved the concept of Extra Help and think that it is a brilliant idea to provide so many needed services all from the same company. So, when I saw that the Plymouth franchise was advertising for a new manager I decided to apply for the job. I have experience in customer service, managing staff and had a degree in nutrition, so I thought that I would be perfect for the role.
I was offered the job and within 10 days I was off to Milton Keynes to join the new franchisees for their training programme. The training was brilliant; both Claire and Sarah were so positive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We also had some fabulous guest speakers including an accountant and a broker from Social Services. Both their presentations were so useful in helping everyone to understand and grow the business.
I have now been in this position for 8 weeks and am loving it! My days are so varied, with a good mix of interacting with clients, co-ordinating our home helpers, to attending networking events, writing for the website and being interviewed by a local magazine.
The Plymouth Franchise has over 50 clients, so there has been lots to learn! Both Claire and Sarah continue to be a great support and I am looking forward to developing the business further. “
I’m not sure how I would have coped over the last 8 weeks without Louise. With her coming on board it has freed up my time to concentrate on bringing in new franchisees. What a difference that has made to the business and to my work life balance! Louise is doing a brilliant job and has fully embraced her new role.
If you or anyone you know would like more information about an Extra Help franchise in the UK, have a look at our website, call us as soon as you can on +44 (0) 845 618 2904 or click here to ping over an email because we want to work with people who are passionate about making a difference in their local community.
Until next time …
CLAIRE ROBINSON
