New franchisee signs for Bluebird Care at the National Franchise Expo

'My husband John originally registered with The Franchise Magazine for more information on various franchises,' says Sue. 'However, I discovered Bluebird while looking through the brands featured and was impressed by the opportunity to do good in the community and at the same time build a successful business.'

Sue began her franchisee training in November and is scheduled to launch her business in early January. 'In the first year I will concentrate on establishing the business with the local community and getting the brand known,' she relates. 'I'm looking forward to helping Bluebird become the national domiciliary care brand with the support and market knowledge of the head office.'

Bluebird has welcomed a report by Government regulatory body the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI), entitled 'Time to Care?', which highlights the growing need for care for people who live at home and the need for a change in the way that care-at-home is delivered. More people will pay directly for their care either with cash provided by social services or from their own resources. With an estimated 47 per cent increase in the number of people over 75 between 2001 and 2021, Bluebird Care is confident that there continues to be a huge opportunity with its care-at-home business.

'The domiciliary care business has always been buoyant but these figures prove just what a huge opportunity there is for committed and professional people,' says Simon Dalziel. 'We also provide care to other groups including mental health, physical disabilities and learning disabilities, and are ideally placed to provide the high quality service they expect.'