Building Yorkshire’s Care Network: Self Employment Journey

The care sector across Yorkshire faces unprecedented challenges, but we're witnessing something remarkable happening right here in the East Riding. Over the past two years, we at Yorkshire in Business have been pioneering an innovative approach that's changing lives whilst addressing one of our region's most pressing needs.

Our Freedom Providers programme, funded by East Riding Council, has already supported over 115 individuals into meaningful self-employment, creating more than 2,500 hours of vital care services for our community. But this is just the beginning of what we believe can reshape how Yorkshire approaches care and support.

The Challenge We're Addressing

Traditional care services simply cannot meet the growing demand in our communities. Too many vulnerable individuals struggle to access the support they need to remain independent in their own homes. Meanwhile, countless skilled people seek flexible work opportunities that align with their values and circumstances.

We recognised this gap and decided to act. Rather than waiting for solutions from elsewhere, we've developed a programme that nurtures micro care providers, training and accrediting individuals who want to make a genuine difference whilst building sustainable self-employed careers.

Your Path to Becoming a Freedom Provider

Whether you're starting fresh, working in care and seeking additional income, or already self-employed looking to expand your services, we've created pathways that work for real people with real circumstances.

For Career Changers

Take Julie, who contacted us after struggling with traditional job searches. A former nurse recovering from health challenges, she possessed invaluable care experience but needed support transitioning to self-employment. Through our programme, Julie now runs a thriving mobile care business supporting vulnerable individuals across Bridlington, proving that your past experience combined with our guidance can create rewarding new opportunities.

For Existing Care Workers

We understand that many care professionals seek additional hours or greater flexibility. Our programme allows you to develop self-employed services alongside existing work, giving you control over your schedule whilst maximising your earning potential. You're already skilled in care – we help you become skilled in business.

For Those Wanting to Give Back

Perhaps you're established in other sectors but feel called to support your community's most vulnerable members. Our training ensures you're properly prepared and accredited, transforming your desire to help into professional, paid services that make real differences to people's lives.

What Makes Our Approach Different

We don't just provide training and send you on your way. Our comprehensive support includes business development guidance, ongoing mentoring, and connection to a network of fellow Freedom Providers who understand your journey. Most importantly, we help match you with individuals who genuinely need your services.

The programme covers practical elements like setting your rates, managing bookings, understanding regulations, and building client relationships. We also provide the business foundation skills that many care professionals haven't had the opportunity to develop: invoicing, insurance requirements, marketing your services, and growing your client base sustainably.

Supporting Independence, Creating Community

Every Freedom Provider we train contributes to something bigger than individual business success. You're helping vulnerable people maintain their independence and dignity by living in their own homes longer. You're providing respite for families and full-time carers who desperately need support. You're building a more responsive, community-led care network that puts people first.

The services Freedom Providers offer range from practical support like shopping and cleaning to companionship and specialised assistance. This flexibility means you can develop services that match your skills, interests, and availability whilst meeting genuine community needs.

The Business Opportunity

Self-employment in care services offers significant advantages. You control your working hours, choose your clients, and set rates that reflect your skills and experience. With our region's ageing population and increasing recognition of the value of remaining in familiar environments, demand for these services continues growing.

Our impact data demonstrates the viability of this approach. The 115 individuals we've already supported aren't just surviving as self-employed care providers – they're thriving, building sustainable businesses whilst making meaningful contributions to their communities.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you're interested in exploring whether becoming a Freedom Provider aligns with your goals and circumstances, we'd love to hear from you. Our team, led by Suzanne, brings warmth, experience, and genuine commitment to supporting every participant's success.

The application process begins with an informal conversation about your background, motivations, and what you hope to achieve. We'll explain the training programme, discuss the support available, and help you understand what self-employment as a Freedom Provider involves.

Taking the Next Step

This programme represents more than business development – it's about creating positive change in our communities whilst building rewarding careers for local people. We're particularly proud that this is a Yorkshire solution to Yorkshire challenges, developed with local insight and delivered with the kind of personal support that makes the difference between success and struggle.

Our commitment extends beyond the initial training. As part of Yorkshire in Business's broader mission, we provide ongoing business support, networking opportunities, and access to additional training as your services grow and evolve.

The care sector needs innovative approaches, and our communities need people who genuinely care about making a difference. If you're ready to explore how your skills, experience, and motivation could translate into meaningful self-employment, Yorkshire in Business is here to support your journey every step of the way.

We're building something special across the East Riding, creating opportunities that didn't exist before whilst addressing needs that have gone unmet for too long. Your involvement could be the key to unlocking your own potential whilst contributing to a stronger, more caring Yorkshire community.