"I recommenced work earlier this year, after a long break for many years while looking after children. The hours are very flexible and a call centre can take the incoming phone calls if I am busy with the children or domestic tasks. I then ring the clients back when I am free. I set my own hours, which would not be something I could hope for from a conventional employed position. Denise in Newcastle also runs her part-time business around her young son, so I knew it would work. I do not live in Southampton, but the contact with staff and clients is by phone and email, so this has not proved to be an issue. There is very little travelling involved and it is a home-based business. Obviously the role is different from traditional employment, as I am responsible for every area of my work and it relies on my own motivation. There are a wider range of challenges than in a 9 to 5 office environment and I have to be prepared to do whatever is necessary to keep clients happy and to hire good staff. There is always support available from head office and other franchisees. I now have a decent income from regular clients. There is a money back guarantee for the franchise fee I invested in order to join the company, providing sufficient marketing is undertaken and I am helped with this a lot by head office who want me to succeed."

Elena, Nationwide Cleaners Southampton franchisee.