01752 905790
info@extra-help.co.uk
When it comes to providing home-help services for the elderly and others in need, Rachel Brown has made a name for herself as a franchise owner who truly understands the value of kindness, companionship, and support. As the owner of Extra Help St Albans, she’s spent the last two years building a thriving business that enhances the lives of many people.
Recently, Rachel expanded her home help franchise into Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted, bringing high-quality home help services to even more clients.
We caught up with Rachel to learn more about her journey, the challenges she overcame, and the rewarding moments that make it all worthwhile.
The early challenges
Launching a new home help franchise takes determination, and Rachel faced several hurdles when starting Extra Help St Albans two years ago.
“When I first launched, I was juggling a full-time job as a carer while building the business. It was important to me not to grow the business too quickly but to ensure I provided quality home help for the elderly and parents who needed additional support. One of my biggest challenges was recruiting the right home helpers—I have very high standards!”
Rachel faced some challenges in the early days, including one, unusual month when a couple of clients sadly passed away. This was emotionally difficult, and Rachel then made the business decision to additionally focus on families in need of Parents’ Help, offering essential support with school runs, newborn care, and other assistance. She also expanded her services to include ‘tidy-up gardening’. Her tailored approach ensured she built strong relationships with clients who required consistent, quality home help services.
Expanding into Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted
Rachel’s decision to expand her home help franchise into Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted was driven by demand and local knowledge.
“I live in Hemel Hempstead and know Berkhamsted well – they’re both great places to work. I knew there was no Extra Help franchisee covering the area, and had received several enquiries, so it felt like the perfect time to grow and bring our trusted services to more clients.”
With 30 regular and 20 ad-hoc clients already benefiting from the home help services that Extra Help St Albans provides, she is currently expanding her team of 10 home helpers to meet new demand in Hemel Hempstead.
Quality over quantity is the secret to success
Rachel’s strategy for growth has been clear from the beginning—to focus on quality service and let recommendations build the business.
“My priority has always been to ensure that no client is ever let down. By providing reliable, compassionate home-help for the elderly and families, I’ve received so many referrals. It’s a testament to the amazing work my team does.”
This dedication recently led to a significant milestone—winning the ‘Compassion Award’ at last year’s Extra Help Conference.
Heartwarming success stories
Among her many success stories, two stand out that perfectly encapsulate why Rachel loves running Extra Help St Albans.
“I provide home help services to a shared accommodation where three, vulnerable, young adults who live semi-independently. One day, I noticed one of them was outside listening to music and dancing, but their garden was looking rundown and neglected. I offered to provide gardening services and the residents were thrilled at the idea of having it looked after. Now, they all have a beautiful space to enjoy, thanks to us!”
Another unforgettable moment came when Rachel fulfilled a simple but meaningful request from an elderly client.
“A client was receiving end of life support by the amazing Macmillan nurses, who made the referral to us. The client needed help to get her home in order so whilst achieving this for her and chatting, she said she was craving a bacon sandwich as she hadn’t had one for a very long time. I promised I’d make her one on my next visit, and so I did. We had a lot of fun and laughter that day. Four days later, she passed away, but her best friend and neighbour told me she had been talking about that sandwich non-stop, saying how much she loved it and how happy it made her! Moments like this remind me why I love what I do and this is a very rewarding memory for me”.
Lessons for future franchisees
For those considering starting their own home help franchise, Rachel offers invaluable advice.
“I had no business experience when I started, but the support from Extra Help Head Office and the other franchisees was fantastic. You can grow at your own pace, whether you’re managing a team of home helpers or working directly for clients. Personally, I do a mix of both—it keeps me active; helps me build strong client relationships; and ensures transparency with families.”
Recognizing the importance of valuing her team, Rachel rewards her home helpers for positive feedback and longevity, with her first home helper recently receiving a two-year bonus.
Future plans for Extra Help St Albans
Rachel sees further potential in her original St Albans territory and plans to expand into surrounding areas like Welwyn and Hatfield.
She’s looking at offering telephone companionship for clients who need support but have limited resources. She’s also looking to recruit a DIY person to help with clients’ odd jobs around the home.
A business that truly makes a difference
When asked about the most rewarding aspect of running Extra Help St Albans, Rachel didn’t hesitate.
“Knowing that I’m making a genuine difference in people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling. And Extra Help’s services are much more affordable compared to care companies, who can charge upwards of £40 per hour, even just for companionship. We only charge from £19.50 per hour, which offers amazing value. It makes this kind of support accessible to people who are living independently and don’t need personal care, just some help with day-to-day tasks.”
With her expansion into Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted now officially underway, there’s no doubt Rachel will continue to transform lives through her home help services and compassionate business approach. We’re so proud of her and wish her every success in her endeavours!
If you’re looking for reliable home help services in the St Albans, Hemel Hempstead or Berkhamsted areas, please call 01727 221202 or visit Extra Help St Albans for more information.
If Rachel’s story has inspired you and you’re interested in running your own home help franchise, please call Extra Help on 01752 905790, or visit www.extra-help.co.uk to find out more about this exciting opportunity!
