​Case study – “I wanted to do something useful & interesting when I retired”

Posted on 18 July, 2016

homesitter collection egg

Retirement isn’t just about putting your feet up. Many people these days want to remain active and do something meaningful when they retire.

Becoming a homesitter can be a great option, especially for single females who want the adventure of seeing more of the UK and enjoy caring for animals.

One such lady is Ellen Hart, a sixty-five year old former orthopaedic nurse from Ascot in Berkshire who became one of our homesitters when she retired three years ago.

Ellen first became aware of our company in the 1980s when an advert in The Lady magazine caught her eye. At the time she thought it sounded like a wonderful idea and contacted us as soon as she retired.

Part of her application involved a two hour interview at our headquarters where Ellen was able to ask lots of questions about the role which reassured her she was making the right decision.

Her first assignment involved looking after a Labradoodle puppy, another dog, a cat, five Bantam hens, a cockerel and a rabbit – it was a great success and she hasn’t looked back.

Ellen is an ideal homesitter. Raised on a farm, she has had plenty of experience looking after animals. She had pet cats and dogs as a child and also enjoyed horse riding. However, she describes herself as ‘a cat person’.

Discussing why home and pet sitting appeals, Ellen says, “I wanted to do something useful and interesting when I retired. Since joining Homesitters I have stayed in gorgeous properties ranging from beautiful townhouses to characterful thatched cottages and met some lovely people.

“I am lucky that I love driving which has meant that I have taken on assignments in many different locations including Kent, Hampshire and London. A real highlight is going back to repeat clients as it’s like a home from home, you know where everything is and the animals are so happy to see you again.

“Some clients even leave little treats for me such as chocolates, special teas or nice cheeses – one lady even made me a ‘pamper bag’ which was really thoughtful.”

We are currently recruiting for reliable and responsible homesitters as we approach the busy summer season, so whether you are a single female or male, or a couple we’d love to hear from you if you think you could fit the bill.

Just take a look at our section on becoming a homesitter to find out more - http://www.homesitters.co.uk/become-a-sitter/

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