Q&A with Right at Home

Joint owners Kev Popat and Amy Patel Popat live in Southampton and their Right at Home franchise covers the Solent area.

What did you do before you took the leap into franchising?

Kev: I earned a degree in management, before working with a firm of accountants in Southampton, qualifying as a chartered accountant. I then worked as a commercial finance manager for an SME.

Amy: Before and during my six years of university, I was involved in my father’s recruitment business, while gaining an honours degree in both optical management and optometry. After graduating, I worked at Boots opticians, before starting my own local practice.

What prompted your decision to make the change?

Kev: Both Amy and I share similar aspirations. We come from entrepreneurial families, so always knew we wanted the freedom of our own business. In 2014, we felt we were ready, having built up enough capital.

What research did you do and how did you come across Right at Home?

Kev: Amy’s sister had already carried out a lot of research on franchising, which she passed to us. We particularly liked what we saw about the care industry – and it was Amy who came across Right at Home. We attended a bfa-supported franchise exhibition in 2015, where we met managing director Ken Deary and some of his team, which allowed us to hear his passion about Right at Home’s ethos. It sat well with who we are, in wanting to offer something that made a difference in people’s lives. Right at Home walked the walk; they didn’t just talk a sales talk.

How long was the sign-up process, and what did it involve?

Amy: The time between deciding to leave employment and signing with Right at Home was about a year. This included our research, and conversations we were having, as we explored other options. During this time, the Right at Home team weren’t pushy, giving us space to process our thoughts and their information.

When we were ready, we had an interview with Ken. What impressed us the most about Right at Home is how selective the company is, which is important given the way the network can affect each other’s business reputation. For example, I recently had a call from a client in Sussex, who knew the franchise owner there and enquired with us, based on his reputation.

After our interview, Kev attended two weeks of training covering everything about the care industry and starting our business. It’s a tough industry, with lots of regulation, so having the support of the Right at Home head office matters.

How different is your current day-to-day life?

Kev: Very different – I don’t always switch off at the end of the day, whereas I could as an employee. It’s our business, so we do what is necessary to make it work, including working some evenings. While Amy would normally cover marketing and recruitment, she is currently on maternity leave, so I am covering all aspects of the business, which is a good challenge. My favourite aspect is meeting with clients – it feels good knowing we are making a difference. Since having our daughter, it has proved perfect timing for us, as we balance business with family.

How has the support been?

Amy: The support is excellent, both from head office and other franchisees, as proven by Right at Home winning the Smith & Henderson Best Franchise Award for the second time, which is based on franchisee satisfaction. I don’t feel like someone is watching over my shoulder – if we need support, we ask for it. The training throughout the year is incredibly beneficial.

What would you say to anyone thinking of making a similar life-changing decision?

Kev: Do what is right for you! Right at Home suits us. Both Amy and I had grandparents actively involved in our upbringing, so were affected by the care they received when they needed it. This made us determined to offer excellent services to others. With the support of the Right at Home franchise, the drive to succeed, and the passion to make a difference, you can build a great business.