The rewards of franchising with Sue Hills

Introducing Sue Hills, Caremark (Mid-Sussex), a franchisee since 2009.

Sue’s business covers a large area in Mid-Sussex, which she runs from her office in Haywards Heath.
Prior to buying her care franchise, Sue was a Registered Mental Health Nurse before becoming a manager within the Community Mental Health Team and moving towards inpatient services.

Why did you decide to go into franchising?

I wanted to run my own business and one that had a maximum chance of success. The idea of being part of a community of other franchisees was appealing as I knew I would always have someone to talk to. Having run a couple of businesses prior to Caremark, I knew how lonely it could get!

What made you decide on a Caremark franchise in particular?

I liked the idea that Kevin Lewis (CEO) had previously owned a successful home care business. His knowledge and experience was therefore invaluable. Also, my background was in health and social care and therefore the combination of this experience and franchising seemed to offer the perfect match.

What has been your greatest achievement since taking on a franchise?

I would say building the business from a zero turnover to in excess of £1.5m within four years. I also learned that I was very entrepreneurial and I now apply this talent to develop my business – keeping to the system of course! I was also able to offer my long-time manager the opportunity of joining me as a franchisee – I believe we make the perfect couple!

Has running your own business met with your expectations?

I would say that it has exceeded my expectations. I earn more than I ever have before and work less hours – what more could I ask for!

Did you have a clear idea of the kind of work/life balance you wanted when you started out?

Yes, very much so. I knew that I wanted a business that would not require me to be present at all times and that was not dependent on “time for money” i.e. it did not depend on my own man hours. This was one of the key criteria that influenced my selection.

Do you feel you have achieved that and if so, how have you gone about it?

Yes, most definitely. From the very beginning I started to look for staff that showed initiative, passion and most importantly, loyalty. I then delegated responsibilities to staff and stood back to enable them to get on with this. This model has worked extremely well and if I wanted to, I could virtually retire but I would be bored! There are also always more opportunities to investigate and pursue.

What do you do to relax away from your business?

My passion is in the field of self-development and empowerment and this has played an integral part in my own business development. I belong to various business and self-development groups which inspire me and I do not see attending these as “work”. I read a lot of personal development books as well as attending seminars and workshops. I have just finished writing an eBook on franchising and am about to write another. I am passionate about the franchising and believe that it will continue to be an attractive proposition for franchisors and franchisees.

I have also walked the Anthony Robbins “firewalk” a couple of years ago which proved that you really can achieve what you put your mind to! I enjoy holidays with my family which I have always managed to take even quite early on in my business, as a strongly believe this is a time to relax and remove oneself from the day to day operations of running a business.

What advice would you give to anyone embarking on running their own business?

Ask yourself the following questions first!

• Are you self-motivated or do you need others to motivate you?
• Are you in good health with enough energy to run a business?
• Are you prepared to work hard?
• Are your family supportive of your decision to run a business?
• Do you have enough capital to start a business?
• Can you make difficult decisions?
• Do you have enough working capital to sustain you whilst you build your business?
• Can you hold your nerve when times get tough?
• Are you generally positive and optimistic?
• Are you prepared to take full responsibility for your actions?
• Do you know your strength and weaknesses?
• Are both you and your family prepared to take a risk?
• Are you prepared to give up employment benefits such as sick pay, holiday pay, pension etc.?
• Can you be disciplined to work on your business even if the sun is shining and your partner or friends want you to do other things!?
• Are you a good communicator?
• Are you best working in a team or on your own?

If you honestly answered “yes” to the majority of these questions, I would suggest that running your own business is right for you. Maybe ask your friends and family whether they see you as a business person?

Would you do anything differently?

Yes. I would have sought more support around the financial aspects of running a business from the beginning, especially regarding cash flow. The saying “cash is king” is so true! Overall, I am very happy with how I have developed the business to where it is today.

Find out more about the Caremark franchise for yourself by clicking below

Franchising as a Family

Emily and Richard Magrath launched their Caremark franchise in 2013.

The Rising Franchisee Star

Raspinder launched his Caremark franchise in his home-town of Gravesend in February 2018.

Taking Control of the Future

Martin Steyn considered investing in a business in the care industry after researching care packages for his own grandmother.

Making The Change To Care

Robert Johnston turned his attention and talents to an industry which would satisfy his personal and financial rewards.

One Woman’s Journey from Health Care to Social Care

Sharan Dhaliwal launched her Caremark franchise after a career in the NHS, spanning 25 years.

Introducing Colin Evans from Caremark

Before buying his Caremark franchise, Colin Evans had a long and successful career in sales and sales management.

Martin Steyn Runs his Caremark franchise in Tunbridge Wells

A day in the life of Martin Steyn from Caremark in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & Malling.

Sharan Dhaliwal Moved From The NHS To Caremark

Sharan Dhaliwal spent 25 years working for the NHS before becoming a franchisee for Caremark.

Duncan Smith Runs Caremark Kirklees

Duncan Smith was new to the social care sector when he started his Caremark franchise in Kirklees.

Introducing Andrew Peace & Mark McKenning From Caremark Barnsley

Friends and former colleagues Andrew Peace and Mark McKenning launched their first Caremark franchise in Barnsley in 2011.

Abhay Shah, Caremark Hillingdon, looks back on first year

Abhay Shah hadn't always planned to have a career in care but he looked into the prospect of starting his own business when daily number crunching became monotonous.

Introducing Richard and Emily Magrath from Caremark

Husband and wife team Richard and Emily Magrath are the owners of Caremark in North Down, Ards & Belfast.

Introducing Charles Folkes from Caremark in Redcar and Cleveland

Caremark's Charles Folkes delivers over 3000 hours of care per week to vulnerable individuals in the Redcar and Cleveland area.