Managing a team of qualified carers, Safehands Network franchisees operate in exclusive territories providing babysitting services to the domestic and hotel sectors, mobile and permanent crèche facilities, out of school care, after school and holiday clubs, and social care provision for individuals and local authorities.

"This is a unique opportunity for people who want to provide the best childcare solutions in the industry and earn a six figure income," states Stephanie Farrer, who founded Safehands with husband Gary in 1997. "We have grown the business by setting the most demanding standards in the childcare industry. We aim to exceed the national standards issued by OFSTED and the Commission for Social Care Inspection, have been pioneers in self-regulating the babysitting industry, are an umbrella organisation for the Criminal Records Bureau, have Investors in People accreditation, and also work to ISO 9001 business standards. In summary, there is no other childcare company that works to our standards or offers the range of services we provide."

Since launching as a franchise, Safehands has awarded seven franchises, and introduced a 50/50 finance scheme whereby the franchisor will fund 50 per cent of the cost of the franchise interest-free. With childcare provision top of government agenda and more families and businesses demanding quality childcare, Safehands is looking to award more franchises to candidates meeting their stringent criteria.

Candidates must be highly motivated, have good business acumen and have enjoyed a successful career to date, be child centred and family orientated, have the ability to manage a project from start to finish, be comfortable meeting people, and most importantly have the drive, desire and ambition to grow a business.

Stephanie points to seven key benefits of the Safehands franchise: "Head office call centre handles all babysitting enquiries and we already have contracts with many of the major hotel groups such as Hilton, De Vere, Paramount and Marriot. Safehands help you win business through a variety of lead generation schemes. By following our proven systems you have the potential to earn a substantial return on your investment. The services on offer are in constant demand from parents, businesses and local authorities. Our experienced managers provide training over five days and ongoing support. With few employees and minimal office space overheads are kept low.

"The concept is simple. We provide the opportunity for franchisees to run the most profitable childcare business in the UK, operating with the ongoing sales, call centre, marketing and recruitment support of our head office.

The training is held at our head office and you can be certain that it is intensive, but carried out in a relaxing, light-hearted and focused manner. I truly believe that this is a unique opportunity within the childcare industry and an extremely rewarding business proposition."