East Yorkshire grandmother joins growing band of 'Olderpreneurs'

Thursday, 01 December 2011

An East Yorkshire grandmother has joined a growing number of ‘olderpreneurs’ - older people who are setting up their own companies.

Jennie Falconer, 52, took the bold move of leaving behind a successful career spanning more than 25 years in the care industry to launch her own business.

Using the experience and skills honed working at every level of the sector, Mrs Falconer has now set herself up as an independent advisor, offering guidance to people looking for care.

Mrs Falconer said: “During my career as a care provider, I noticed that people who were referred to me or who made personal enquiries really had no idea of what they were looking for or who they could trust to get the right advice.

“People were often bewildered as, more often than not, the situation they found themselves in had happened almost overnight. One day, mum or dad was enjoying an independent life and the next, following a fall or illness, they were in urgent need of help.

“I decided to become an independent care adviser as I believe I can offer real solutions to families who find themselves facing crises like these.
Mrs Falconer, of Rolston Road, Hornsea, meets with clients to discuss their needs, before talking them through the options available to them after carrying out extensive research.

She said: “I’ve worked as a warden in a sheltered housing scheme and managed private residential nursing villages and everything in between, giving me an excellent insight into the industry.

“I believe the service I offer is the first of its kind in the area and my aim is to help families through the minefield of choosing a care home or support package for a loved one or relative.

“As a completely independent expert, I can provide guidance on care for the over-55s across Hull and East Yorkshire, including domiciliary care, care homes, respite care, nursing and care for people with dementia.”

A study carried out by Prime – the charity which helps older people get back into work – found that more people over the age of 50 were starting up businesses than five years ago.

Dubbed ‘olderpreneurs’, it is thought they have increasingly turned towards self-employment following the recession.

Mrs Falconer, who is married and has a son and grandson, said: “Becoming self-employed took a lot of courage because these are uncertain times for everyone.

“However, helping my first client find the right care for their loved one was very rewarding and it is clear that I can use my knowledge and experience not only to benefit people at what can be an extremely stressful time in their lives, but also create a successful business.”

For more information about Jennie Falconer and her business, visit her website by clicking here or call her on 07834491242.