About 30 per cent of all franchisees are female, many attracted by the fact that franchises provide expert support not available to independent start-ups.
Anne Anyon runs the SureCare homecare franchise in Preston and South Ribble providing care to the elderly, disabled and people with learning difficulties.
Anne says: ‘I started as a carer and then worked in a care company office, so when I decided to start my own business I chose a care franchise.
‘This is now a heavily regulated sector and at that time the regulations were in flux, so the support of the franchisor was invaluable.’
Anne now has about 100 service users and 40 staff. She says: ‘I talk with other franchisees. We swap tips, advice and news, so it’s a useful
community.
Vikki Donnachie, franchise sales manager for SureCare, says: ‘our franchisees must want to make a difference within care but they must also be entrepreneurial.’ the investment is £28,000 plus working capital.
Razzamataz theatre Schools can be run part-time around a family.
Franchisee and new mother Hayley Limpkin, 31 , who runs two Razzamataz schools, says: ‘I’m on maternity leave but I have built up such a fantastic team that I know the teaching quality and management is excellent in my absence.’
Denise Hutton-Gosney, from £9,000 franchise Razzamataz, says: ‘If you want to combine your love of the performing arts with a busy family life, Razzamataz could suit you — but you must be businesslike.’
Women considering a franchise can get help from EWIF (Encouraging Women into Franchising). Co-chair Louise Harris from the Wilkins Chimney Sweep franchise says: ‘EWIF offers free services such as a phone support, advice and mentoring.’
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