Family care for grandfather inspires man to launch homecare business in Horsham

“Granddad wasn’t able to receive care, which catered to his specific needs,” says Richard. “Microwave meals and no help with household chores meant that if he hadn’t had support from his family, his nutrition would have suffered and companionship and comfort would have been severely lacking.

“I asked myself, ‘How does someone with no family cope?’”

Richard’s commitment to the care sector was reinforced by the experience of a close family member who has Motor Neurone Disease. “He is fiercely independent, and it showed me first-hand the importance of care, which allows people to maintain their independence for as long as possible,” Richard says.

Richard wanted to put his commitment to personalised care into action, so he left his career in the financial services industry to start his own homecare business. Now he has launched the Walfinch homecare service for Reigate and Horsham.

Walfinch is a growing homecare franchise, which has 26 branches across the country owned by franchisee managing directors.

“Being the owner of Walfinch Reigate and Horsham means creating a culture in which both clients and carers are valued members of, not just a team or brand, but a community,” Richard says. “I have huge respect for carers and aim to be an employer of choice in the sector by rewarding people for their caring nature, loyalty and hard work.”

Richard started his career in equine insurance, then moved into the financial sector in sales, trading, broking and project management, but wanted to leave the finance industry to run his own business. He says: “Now I can build my own Walfinch homecare business in a rewarding sector while using my experience from multiple industries.”

Richard is joined in the business by his Mum, Angela, who brings her experience caring for his Granddad. Angela is the branch’s care co-ordinator, and is qualified via a Train the Trainer course to provide training to the care staff.

Richard adds: “With the support of the Walfinch franchise I can build a business that benefits the local community and delivers great emotional rewards. Once my first branch is thriving, I’m ambitious to open a second.”

If you, or a loved one, needs some assistance at home, or if you are considering a career in care, contact the team on 01737 847 888 or email [email protected].

More details are also available via the Walfinch website: https://walfinch.com/hourly-care/reigate-horsham.