1. What was your situation and what challenges were you facing before you found Sparrow?
I’ve been a self-employed carer for about 20 years, predominantly working with one client at a time, though I was employed by a care provider for a short period. I came across Sparrow when my client had suddenly gone into hospital and I was left on hold – a job but no income. My client eventually went into residential care. Suspecting this would happen, I met Tom and Anna for an extremely informal interview, which was as much me interviewing them as the reverse.
2. What did Sparrow do to help?
We decided we were a good fit and went ahead getting all the formalities completed – DBS, online training, bank account, insurance etc. One of the best things I’ve found about being a Sparrow carer is that there’s always someone in the background supporting ME. “I’m having a problem with X or Y” or “can you chase an invoice that hasn’t been paid?” In my experience, nothing is too much for them. I still have my own clients – as many or as much work as I choose. I don’t have to do a 15-minute rushed meal before charging on to the next client. I have time to build a special relationship with each and every one of them. I LOVE IT!
3. How did you benefit from the support you received?
The support from Sparrow has given me the freedom to work the way I believe care should be done. I’m self-motivated and driven – if the client isn’t up to much, I find jobs that need doing. My phone remains closed while I’m with a client – they get my full attention. I listen to my client, learn how they like things done, and stay aware of other things that might need doing that they may be reluctant to ask for – mowing the grass, unblocking a drain, as well as the domestic jobs in the home. Sparrow’s support gives me the confidence to work this way.
4. What would you say to someone thinking about self-employed care with Sparrow?
I think being a Sparrow carer is a win-win situation. Better for the carer and better for the client, because they get continuity of care, not some random stranger who happens to have space on their roster.