Two women with successful careers in finance behind them have taken up the challenge of new roles in their working lives by going into partnership and setting up a domiciliary care business.
Tracey Hudson and Jo Gawne have launched 1st Care at Home (IOM) and, while qualified and ‘hands on’ themselves, now employ a team of experienced, fully trained carers.
‘This is to meet the demand from a wide range of people and families of varying circumstances who need care and support while continuing to stay in their own home,’ said Tracey, who has first-hand experience of being not only a mother to a son who has a form of autism but also being his special needs carer.
‘I know just how demanding and at times wearing it can be and although Charles is now a teenager of 16 care for him as an adolescent is still crucially important,.’ she added.
‘I gave up my career in the finance sector to look after my son and it definitely gave me a different outlook on life so I can now empathise with other families in that situation.’
After leaving her job in finance Tracey, who also has two grown up children, helped in the running of another care business for nearly four years.
It was then that she and Jo Gawne, the part-time manager of a local charity, felt they could offer a service and decided to set up their own care business.
‘The care we offer is designed so people who might otherwise have to go into care can continue living at home and maintain their independence and dignity in their own homes,’ explained Tracey.
‘It’s a simple formula but we believe it’s important to go that ‘‘extra mile’’ and offer a high level of quality care.
‘We will always endeavour to match carers to like-minded clients.’
While Tracey is the ‘people face of the business’ Jo is the organiser behind the business.
‘We bring different strengths and qualities to the business,’ said Tracey, who has qualifications in management of people suffering from dementia.
In recent years she has taken on a wealth of courses and qualifications.
‘I really love my job, it gives me a buzz and without sounding trite it gives me a good feeling about helping the less able and vulnerable. This includes young people who may be disabled or require special needs care in their home.’
1st Care at Home has all-island coverage and can be contacted at 450875