The Realities of Being a Self-Employed Carer
The Realities of Being a Self-Employed Carer: Challenges & Rewards
Becoming a self-employed carer can be one of the most rewarding choices you’ll ever make - but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. At Gladys, we work closely with self-employed carers across Bath, Bristol, North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch to offer flexible home care opportunities that match their values, skills, and schedules.
In this post, we explore the everyday experiences of self-employed carers, including the pros and cons, the freedom and the responsibilities, and how working with Gladys can help you succeed in your caring career.
🌟 The Daily Life of a Self-Employed Carer
Self-employed carers offer vital home care support - often including companionship, personal care, mobility assistance, or household help. Unlike agency carers, you choose your schedule, your clients, and the type of care you offer.
For many, this means deeper client relationships, a greater sense of purpose, and the chance to deliver care that really makes a difference. At Gladys, we hear every day how being a private home carer empowers people to focus on what matters most - dignity, continuity, and kindness.
💼 The Freedom (and Responsibility) of Being Your Own Boss
As a self-employed carer, you can:
- Set your own working hours
- Choose where and when you work
- Accept jobs that suit your lifestyle
- Earn more by cutting out agency fees
But this flexibility also means:
- You’re responsible for your own bookings and income
- You need up-to-date training and DBS certification
- You’ll manage your own taxes and insurance
That’s where Gladys comes in - we connect carers with local families, help match you to the right opportunities, and offer onboarding support so you’re never alone.
🧡 Emotional Rewards
Self-employed care work is more than a job - it’s a vocation. Whether it’s helping an older person remain independent in their own home or offering respite care to support a family in crisis, the impact is felt every day.
Many of our carers tell us the emotional rewards are what keep them going: the trust they build, the appreciation from families, and the pride in knowing their work truly matters.
⚠️ Common Challenges
There are, of course, difficult days. Being a self-employed carer can feel isolating, especially without the structure or resources of a traditional care agency. You may also need to advocate for yourself with clients or navigate complicated care needs. Carer wellbeing is therefore very important.
At Gladys, we provide ongoing guidance and safeguarding support - so you have the backup you need when things get tricky. Our goal is to offer you the same care and respect you give your clients.
💬 What Carers Say About Working with Gladys
“It’s the first time I’ve felt truly valued. I get to choose the families I work with, and Gladys is there whenever I need advice.”
- Carer, Bristol
“The Open Shifts board makes it easy to find flexible work that fits my life.”
- Carer, Bath
“Gladys carers are treated like professionals. That makes a huge difference.”
- Carer, Poole
✅ Why Join Gladys as a Self-Employed Carer?
We’re not a traditional care agency. We’re an introductory service that puts local carers and families at the heart of everything we do. Here’s how we support you:
- Transparent introductions to local families
- Flexible bookings through our Open Shifts Board
- Resources to help you stay compliant and confident
- A community that values your expertise and time
Whether you’re looking for live-in care roles, companionship care in Bristol, or respite care work near Bath, we can help you find meaningful work that fits your life.
🌍 We’re Growing - Join Us in Your Local Area
We work with self-employed carers across:
- Bath & North East Somerset
- Bristol
- Wiltshire
- South Gloucestershire
- Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole
If you’re ready to make a difference and want a simpler, more respectful way to work, we’d love to hear from you.
