Central Management Team
Andrew Richardson
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
arichardson@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“I have over forty years of management experience in business hospitality and customer services. I’ve always been an ideas person in roles where I have had to find and deliver client focused solutions. This is an expect of work that I enjoy. I came to the care sector as an attorney organising complex care needs for a client when I discovered the challenges, pitfalls and inadequacies of what the typical domiciliary care company was able to deliver; I wanted something far better that was client focused and provided what I would want for myself or a loved one. Friends Helping at Home was born from that simple vision!”
When Andrew’s not working with our Branch owners, he can be found manicuring his new lawn or seeking out a full bodied Malbec.
Sam Stuart-Hill Assoc CIPD
Managing Director
ssh@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“My education background spans 10 years in autism specialization, involving policy development for Kent County Council and HR management. Seeking a more fulfilling career, I transitioned to Friends Helping at Home, initially focusing on recruitment and registration. Recognizing my transferable skills, I embraced the MD role, relishing in supporting a caring, stakeholder-centric business. I value the nurturing environment, culture, and work-life balance.”
Sam is our Managing Director. When she’s not working on HR Projects, she can be found preparing Middle Eastern food and driving on the A303.
Chloe Perry
Accounts Director
cperry@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“I was a former Complex Home Care Manager who shifted paths due to a lack of person-centred focus. A dedicated mum and currently immersed in a home renovation, I discovered a new path at Friends Helping at Home in 2018. Unlike traditional domiciliary care, this community prioritises clients and service providers, embodying a “Care at Heart” philosophy. I’m passionate about making a positive impact and continue to champion individualised support for those in need”
When Chloe’s not crunching figures or anything chocolatey you’ll find her watching a Netflix crime series or collecting ashtrays from around the world.
Clare Hennessy
BlueSky 2020 Accounts Administrator
chennessy@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“I’ve navigated diverse career paths, from retail to hospitality and then into the corporate legal sector. Seeking a new chapter focused on family and balance, I relocated to Devon. Discovering FHAH was a ‘pinch me’ moment. Despite lacking experience in the care industry, I applied for an admin position and was hired due to my extensive administration background. Transitioning to the finance department, I now liaise between clients and service providers. FHAH’s approach to its team, clients, and service providers is truly refreshing, setting a new standard for care provision”
Clare is our Bluesky2020 Administrator. When she is not invoicing or paying our hardworking Service Providers, she may be found swimming off one of Devon’s gorgeous beaches or with a glass of red, reading recipe books for meals she will probably never cook!
Jo Craythorne
Compliance & Quality Director
jcraythorne@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“The Friends vision is the reason I returned to the care sector after many years working as a quality and registered manager. FHAH actually do what they say and enable the best care to be delivered in a safe environment. I am a great advocate and champion best practise and high standards which are all part of the ethos and culture of Friends. My job is to ensure that this is properly protected.”
Jo is our Compliance and Quality Director. When she is not reading a new policy, you’ll find her navigating Dartmoor or doing yoga with her grandchildren.
Hazel Anderson
Office Administrator
hazel.anderson@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“Before joining Friends Helping at Home, had worked my way up to the head office team of a care company. Starting as a carer, I progressed to a head office administrator role and eventually collaborated closely with operations. Despite my career growth, I realised that the company I was with did not align with the values I sought in a workplace. I longed to be part of an organisation that genuinely valued caregivers for their essential role. That’s when I discovered FHAH, valuing caregivers and offering opportunities for growth within the head office team. FHAH have positively shaped my care experience”
Hazel is our Office Administrator for Head Office. When she’s not processing registrations or updating the website, she can be found booking festival tickets and smiling at dogs.
Paul Lilley
Director for Strategy and Business Development
Paul.lilley@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“Coming from a family deeply engaged in health and care, I sought to give back in a way that aligns with my values. FHAH resonated with these values and more. My enduring commitment to FHAH reflects my role as an advocate and ambassador. I endorse our mission to revolutionize care for the betterment of those we serve and their families. With a background in finance spanning 34 years with HSBC across the UK and Asia, I’m passionate about giving back, currently serving as vice chair of a local Multiple Academy Trust and previously as a strategic governor at our local hospital trust. Our journey continues with unwavering support from our team, clients, and their families”
Paul is our Director for Business Development. When he isn’t meeting with investors, he can be found running 10k around Torbay or planning his next trip to the USA.
Matt Pope
External Legal Advisor to Friends Helping at Home
support@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
Matt is our Legal Director and a Solicitor. When not reading contracts or giving advice, Matt will often be found working on his latest novel or poem.
FHAH Branches
Karen Breyley
Torbay Branch Director
kbreyley@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“In April 2018, I co-founded Torbay’s “Friends” branch with Andrew Richardson, prioritizing person-centered care. Despite a recent redundancy from healthcare recruitment, my background aligned perfectly to launch “Friends” in Torbay. In six years, we’ve expanded across Devon, boasting a high retention rate, with many carers growing their careers with us. Over forty carers currently serve Torbay, fostering professional relationships and providing unrushed visits. I take pride in our business, the dedicated service providers, and the quality care that enables clients to thrive at home”
Karen Breyley is the owner of our Torbay branch. When she isn’t meeting and greeting our Service Providers and clients you will find her relaxing in her caravan or walking her cheeky pups, Ronnie and Reggie.
Steph Alexander
Exeter Area Branch Manager
exeter@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“As Exeter’s branch owner with 21 years in healthcare, I ventured into franchise ownership four years ago, fulfilling my dream. My passion lies in delivering unparalleled service and making a daily difference. In this cherished family, I found a platform to realize aspirations, shaping my love for this unique business. Friends Helping at Home (FHAH) resonated deeply with me, and after four years, my commitment remains unwavering. I cherish our community ethos, proud that there’s no other care company like us. When I found Friends Helping at Home, I knew it was too good to be true, but my investment in time and effort has paid off, and after four years, my commitment remains unwavering”
Steph is the owner of our Exeter branch. When she isn’t sharing the love as part of the Friends Family, she can be found avoiding oysters and singing along to the Backstreet Boys in the supermarket.
Tamar Grant
Plymouth Branch Manager & Director
plymouth@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“I acquired the Plymouth Branch of Friends Helping at Home in September 2023, leveraging over two decades of customer service experience and previous work as a carer. Rooted in Plymouth, with deep community ties, I’m dedicated to Friends’ culture and ethos. I prioritize client satisfaction, problem-solving, and introducing exceptional care professionals. Genuine connections and active listening define my approach, fostering success in delivering “Care at Heart.” With enthusiasm for the Friends way of working, I strive to provide unwavering support for both clients and carers, embodying the essence of compassionate care”
When not problem-solving for service providers or going the extra mile for clients you can find Tamar in the kitchen wiping up some yummy ice cream. Feel free to email her, she may be able to make your flavour….
Emily Merry
Teignbridge Branch Manager & Portishead Director
emerry@friendshelpingathome.co.uk
“In 2022, I became a part of Friends Helping at Home following the passing of my father at home. This personal experience underscored the importance of companionship grounded in shared morals and values. Within Friends, I’ve grown from an assistant to a Manager and now to a Branch Director. I take immense pride in the positive influence we’ve had on the lives of our clients and their families, empowering them to maintain their comfort and independence within their own homes. My career in care has included working with the NHS Ambulance service and also as a private carer something which I valued in being able to make a positive difference to people to remain living in their own home. The values and way of working is what attracted me to Friends Helping at Home which is so refreshingly different”