Working as a self-employed care provider offers a unique set of advantages and challenges. For those considering this path, the flexibility and autonomy can be incredibly rewarding, yet it also demands careful management and planning. Today, we’re spotlighting Katy, one of our registered care providers at Friends Helping at Home. With her wealth of experience and insight into both the personal and professional sides of self-employed care work, Katy shares her journey, the benefits she values, and her advice for others exploring this career path.
Meet Katy – A Registered Service Provider with Friends Helping at Home
Katy is 27 years old, a devoted wife, and mother to a young son. With a decade of experience in the care industry and a unique background as a qualified Funeral Director, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Outside of work, she enjoys cozy moments with a good book or her latest crochet project, and she has a particular fondness for autumn and Halloween. Here’s a closer look at what drew her to Friends Helping at Home and how she navigates the unique challenges of self-employed care work.
Insight from Katy: A Day in the Life of a Self-Employed Care Worker
Why did you join Friends Helping at Home? I joined Friends Helping at Home as I wanted the flexibility of not having to work set shifts and do crazy hours all day long due to having a young family and childcare commitments. My husband has also worked within the care sector as long as I have (fun fact – it’s how we met nearly 8 years ago!) and he has now been with Friends Helping at Home for nearly three years. He mentioned to me about joining aswel, and it was clear to see that it wasn’t like ‘other’ care companies and its a lot more relaxed – you are your own boss! So I decided to get in contact and started within the same week, I have now just passed a year of being with Friends Helping at Home in October 2024.
What do you love the most about being registered with Friends Helping at Home? The overall atmosphere is incredible, all the service providers are happy to be going to the clients that are selected for them, all the clients are happy with the service providers they have, each and every client has a smile on their face and barely any grumbles to be said. I love the fact that every new client that comes on the books you have the option to decline the work if you feel it isn’t a good fit for you, without any judgement, and you will always be introduced to the client before any care is given, which means the clients never get a stranger and know exactly who is coming and when.
Can you describe Friends Helping at Home in 3 words? Supportive, Respectful, Understanding
What would you tell someone thinking about registering with Friends Helping at Home? If you want to work in care and thrive from helping others, but don’t like the whole rushed aspect and the back to back calls, then Friends Helping at Home is definitely the company to sign up with. It’s the best company I have worked for since starting care work over 10 years ago!
How do you keep a good work life balance? I have my permanent hours which is enough to make a decent wage, but I also have plenty availability to cover extra if its needed. I am happy to say no if I want to, and that is so important. I remember to take time for myself and my family and try not to overwork myself. I have one set day off during the week which is ‘family day’ and I stick to that day off regardless.
How to do you feel about being self employed? It was overwhelming at first, as there is a lot to consider in regards to getting set up and keeping track of your expenses and income and your own rota etc, but once you get the hang of it its super easy and the staff in the office are so helpful with any queries you have. The only downside is if you don’t work… you don’t get paid (obviously) but that takes some getting used to as things like sickness and childcare when my son is sick is just life, I just make sure to keep a constant check on my finances and know that if something does happen I will be able to afford the time off.
What’s your best tip for someone self employed? Buy yourself a diary so you can write down your weekly hours day by day – and some erasable pens! The amount of cover I provide for holidays and sickness, I would be lost without my diary and wouldn’t know when I was available or not without it – its my saving grace!
Katy’s experiences highlight the balance between independence and responsibility that comes with self-employment in care. For those who prioritize flexibility and control over their work schedule, joining a supportive organisation like Friends Helping at Home can be an ideal fit. If you’re considering a similar career path, take Katy’s advice: stay organised, embrace the freedom to say “no” when needed, and remember to find time for yourself and your loved ones. Working in care can be as rewarding as it is demanding, and for many, like Katy, it’s the perfect career.
Interested in registering with our network?
Call Friends Helping at Home today on; 0333 202 71 71
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