Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA (British Franchise Association) explains why a homecare franchise can offer high growth possibilities.
The rise in homecare franchises.
There was a 53% rise in ‘personal services’ franchises, which include homecare (also called domiciliary care) from 2018 to 2024 according the British Franchise Journal 2024, compiled for the BFA and sponsored by NIC Local.
What’s behind the rise?
The ageing population is key: 19% of Britons are already 65 and over (12.7m people), predicted to rise to 25% by 2043, and the 85+ UK population (who are more likely to need care) is projected to rise from 2.5% to 4.3%. (ONS).
Growing market
The UK homecare and supported living markets were valued at £12.4 billion in 2022-23 with a compound annual growth rate of 5–6%.
Meanwhile, the number of new requests for care increased from 2.0 million in 2022/23 to 2.1 million in 2023/24, including 658,000 from working-age adults (up 8%). (Kings Fund)
How successful are homecare franchises?
Domiciliary care brands made up 17.5% of the finalists in the BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards in 2025, and over half (57.7%) of all franchise brands that were finalists offer personal services, which includes care.
The BFA’s website offers details of BFA-member homecare franchises. As the UK’s leading authority on franchising, we are dedicated to upholding ethical business practices and high standards. Established in 1977, we empower businesses and individuals through accreditation, education, and expert guidance. We work hard to help people choose the right franchise for them.
Is easy it to become a homecare franchisee?
Homecare franchises provide training and support, so you can swap into it, but a franchise can also be a way for people with care sector experience to start their own business.
Annie Mayet, formerly in corporate recruitment, is now a GoodOaks Homecare franchisee. Annie says: “They helped me navigate everything from compliance and care regulations to marketing and systems. Knowing I had that expertise behind me gave me the confidence to focus on building my team and growing the branch.”
Walfinch homecare franchisee Sarah Wickham owns four branches in East Anglia and is on target to achieve a £4m turnover. Sarah had a 25-year career in care, but says: “When I wanted my own care agency, I decided a homecare franchise would give me more business education and support.”
Not all care franchises are the same
Franchise brands vary. Kate Dilworth, Associate Director, Network Development at Right at Home UK says: “Our aim has always been to stand out by setting the bar in terms of consistent quality of care – as evidenced through our regulatory ratings. 34% of Right at Home’s CQC-inspected locations carry an overall Outstanding rating, compared to just 3% nationally, and our group client review score on Homecare.co.uk, is 9.9/10 for 80 locations, the highest of any large franchise group.” Right at Home was both the UK and European Franchisor of the Year in the last 12 months.
It has its own bespoke end-to-end operating software system, is currently piloting AI-assisted admin efficiencies, and is introducing wearable monitoring technology for clients. Kate adds: “Having seen improved opportunities to work in partnership with the NHS, we have developed our franchise model to equip franchisees to deliver a range of healthcare services in community settings.”
Amrit Dhaliwal, Founder and Chief Executive of Walfinch homecare, says: “We want clients to thrive, not just survive, so we deliver care plus activity, chosen by our clients, to maintain and improve their physical and mental health. Every client booking an hour of care, is supported by their carers to enjoy at least ten minutes of activity, such as gardening, or walking.
“Our franchisees also run Thrive Clubs, offering free activities, such as seated exercise, to clients and local communities. We also support the Royal Osteoporosis Society, which recommends activity. It helps create a more positive image of care and gets the Walfinch name known locally.”
At GoodOaks Homecare, Ben Ashton says: “My co-founder Darius Mitkus and I started our careers as care professionals, so we know what it takes to deliver outstanding care. That’s why our mission is to be the go-to provider of quality care at home by valuing, developing, and rewarding the caring people who work with us.
“Our strong local ties mean our teams really understand their communities, their clients’ needs, preferences, and personalities. Being UK-owned and independent also means we’re agile, responsive, and not weighed down by the overheads or bureaucracy of a multinational corporation, so our franchise partners keep more of their profits while making a genuine difference close to home.”
From Accountancy To Care
Before becoming the Right at Home franchisee, chartered accountant Sanjay Vedhara worked in businesses, but during COVID-19 he did volunteer charity work, organising the delivery of hot meals to NHS staff.
It solidified Sanjay’s desire for a more meaningful career. “I wanted something that allowed me to help people, but also make a living,” he says. “When I learned about domiciliary care and what Right at Home offered, it clicked.”
Sanjay took over the Right at Home Ealing & Hounslow franchise in 2023, having never owned a business before.
Support
Sanjay has access to expert guidance in compliance, operations, recruitment, marketing, and more. “Marketing was my biggest weakness,” he admits. “The marketing team are proactive, responsive, and give advice that works.”
As part of a franchise network, he says:”You can call anyone and they’ll share advice, tools, and even documents. There’s a genuine willingness to help each other succeed.”
Sanjay is targeting £1.1 million in turnover and a 30% increase in clients over the next two years.
He advises: “It’s hard work, but if you care about people, the rewards are huge. Even if I don’t make millions, I go home every day knowing I’ve made a difference.”
