Tim Corry and Alex Duncan, two former Royal Air Force and commercial pilots, tell us why investing in a Guardian Angel Carers franchise was a change for the better
When Tim Corry left the RAF, he had only considered flying as a future role in the belief that was where his skills lay.
“But an officer’s role is incredibly varied,” he says. “I’d learnt skills and gained experiences I’d taken for granted and missed. Establishing our franchise in-home care meant I could employ the best of all those skills.”
Alex Duncan agrees. Keen to run their own business, franchising offered the ideal way in, with a proven model and knowledgeable support.
“We looked at a few options, but Guardian Angel Carers stood out for us,” he adds.
Positive move
The step into home care came when the pandemic hit and commercial flying had all but stopped. So Tim and Alex started to volunteer in their community.
“We realised our raison d’etre of service was our real motivation,” Tim says.
It prompted them to make a change. Research led to Guardian Angel Carers.
“Their ethos, spirit of compassion and warm familial feel chimed with us and Christina Bassadone’s Olympic story to entrepreneur founder inspired us to get in touch,” Tim says.
Part of the family
Tim and Alex felt these values aligned well with their backgrounds, while the energy, high support ratio and rolled-up sleeves approach was motivating. They noticed no one was asking them to do anything they hadn’t done already. It gave them confidence.
The home care industry also inspired them because of its compassion, incredible people and the advances in enabling technology and preventative approaches to medicine and care.
“We want to be part of that in a company that is positively evolving care for the better with the choice of care at home,” Tim says.
As they establish their business, Alex and Tim say Christina and the headquarters team are giving them a lot of time.
“They’ve supported us every step of the way,” Alex explains. “We’ve always been given the fullest picture of what’s involved and what to expect.”
Help with figures, navigating the regulatory requirements and care training has impressed too.
“We’re given all the time we need to improve all we do,” Tim says.
A solid foundation
Tim and Alex recognise that the Guardian Angel Carers franchise model gives them a solid foundation.
“We own a business doing work we love and share a vision with others doing the same,” Tim says. “I’d highly recommend it.”
Alex advises that it’s vital to do your homework: “You’re signing up for the next 10 years.
“Align your values to a company, working with people who match yours. That way, it will be a smooth flight.”
At a glance
Established:
2012
Number of franchised outlets:
4
Location of units:
UK
Investment range:
£37,500
Minimum required capital:
£50,000
Contact:
Vicky Brown franchise@gacarers.co.uk 03333 660550
