As independent carers ourselves we love helping people to find their own route towards becoming exceptional self-employed carers. We understand that there are many ways to achieve this and that working with Sparrow might not be the ideal choice for everyone. We've identified three broad groups that potential carers often fall into to help you understand where you sit and whether Sparrow might be a good fit for you.
Group 1: Carers who don't feel they need or want the support
For those who are self-reliant, highly experienced, or just prefer finding their own path, setting up completely independently might be the best path. Some people are up for the challenge of researching and solving set up issues like DBS certification, HMRC obligations, insurance, training, CQC regulations, handling your business promotion, contracts, care documents etc.. Some people will already fel confident and may not need any support or ongoing help with invoicing, chasing payments or tax returns from an accountant. Perhaps you don't feel you would benefit from being part of a community of independent carers or help with promoting your business or finding clients either.
None of what we help carers with is complicated and carers can absolutely go it alone and make a complete sucess of self-employed care with some determination, research and by spreading the word. If that sounds like you, then working completely independently might suit you best. This does entail some upfront costs, so it won't save you money in the short term but the big advantage is that you save your clients our fees (These are the lowest in the industry at 10% of your care costs). We do save the clients we work with significant amounts of money compared to working with agencies. We also offer them some benefits over working with completely independent self-employed carers - so we're convinced it's a great deal for clients too. Nevertheless some people will still prefer to go it alone and we 100% understand that and support your pioneering spirit. If that's you, you probably don't need us to tell you to go for it! We're glad you're going to be out there providing independent care. We need more determined self-employed carers like you!
If that sounds like you then please still feel free to reach out for a chat. We're happy to chat to fellow carers, share insights, point you to useful information and third parties and discuss potential next steps for you without any sales pitch. Go get 'em!
Group 2: Carers who aren't are up for the challenge and responsibility of being self employed
For those uncertain about the challenges and responsibilities of independent caregiving Sparrow may not be the best fit either. We do everything we can to make the process of becoming an independent carer as simple as possible. However being a self-employed carer unavoidably requires real commitment, being comfortable with high levels of self-reliance, and a great work ethic as well as all the qualities needed to provide great care as an employee.
If that sounds like it just won't work for you then exploring opportunities with an agency might be a more suitable option. Regardless of your choice, we welcome you to get in touch for guidance and assistance in finding the best way forward for you as a carer. We're glad you're out there providing care. It's such a valuable and rewarding job. Thanks for your efforts!
Group 3: Carers who are up for the challenge of being self-employed but want some additional support and guidance
If you aspire to embrace the challenges of independent care but just want some additional support, Sparrow might be a really good fit for you. Does the following sound like you?
You want to have a step by step framework to help you get set up as an independent carer
You understand that there is some up front work that is unavoidable (but that it will make your life easier in the long run)
You would like help to find clients whenever you need it. You would appreciate the ongoing support from Sparrow and help with admin and finances.
You want to be part of an active community of independent carers learning from others and also contributing to the group
You understand that while you will pay no fees at all, and keep 100% of what you charge Sparrow will charge your clients a fee of 10%.
You are committed to doing everything you can to become the best carer you can be.
If that sounds like you then we may be a good fit. Just get in touch so we can talk about it more detail and together decide whether working with Sparrow as a self-employed carer is right for you.
