Nicola’s business dream flies high

For former accountant, Nicola Walden, running her own business had always been her aim and identified that the best way for her to achieve this was either to buy an established business or explore the franchise route.


“Like many people, I have worked for others for most of my working life but decided it was time to put all my efforts into my own business,” says Nicola.

Her decision was made when she discovered the Bluebird Care business opportunity at the British Franchise Exhibition in Manchester in June 2010.

“The company’s professionalism shone through from the start and there was a real passion for providing a high quality care service to its customers – something very dear to me,” explains Nicola.“I had some exposure to the care sector in my last Financial Controller role for a large care home group, so was attracted by the possibility of running my own care at home business as I knew this was a fast growing area.

“I also was keen to have a business where I could be part of the community and make a difference by providing a high quality of care – I have seen what a difference it makes to people’s lives if they are looked after properly and in their own home.”

Following a meeting at the Bluebird Care’s head office in Hampshire, Nicola was convinced she was making the right choice of franchise partner.

“I looked at other care franchises but Bluebird Care was head and shoulders above the others with its experience in both care and franchising and the franchise package,” she continues, “and although some offered a cheaper start-up cost, I realised Bluebird Care was giving me good value for money.”Having attended the company’s initial franchise owner training course and received her registration from the care authorities, Nicola launched her business earlier this year.

“The support from Bluebird Care has been excellent, both in getting me ready to trade and since my launch. I have a regional Business Development Manager who is always available for help and advice and takes a keen interest in ensuring I am on track. Bluebird Care has delivered what it said it would – and more!”

Due to the careful and detailed preparation of her business, as soon as she was registered as a care provider, Nicola had customers from her first day of trading and has since seen her business continue to grow steadily.

“I am pleased to say I am ahead of my business plan,” explains Nicola, “and am delighted with the way the business is expanding. I have an excellent Care Manager, Anna Walker, who has assisted greatly in helping us get to where we are now.”

Nicola adds that she has no regrets about becoming a Bluebird Care franchise owner.

“I am realising my dream of running my own business and controlling my own destiny,” she beams. “It is a joy to see my business growing and enjoy the excellent reputation for high quality care we have earned.”

Reported by Fraser McKay