Flexible working in action
The best way to understand and think about changes you may want to make to your business is to learn from others and read their experiences. Here we have gathered some relevant case studies to help you think about how others have adapted to flexible business models.
Business models
Starting a forest school - Charlotte
Charlotte is a teaching assistant during term time, but saw the huge benefits that a forest school could have in her area to not only give children an additional way of learning, but as a way for Kate to continue to earn money in the school holidays. Read Charlotte's experience.
Combining childminding with a first aid business - Lucy
Lucy was looking out for a business opportunity and was prepared to be flexible with her business. Covid has been the ultimate test and for Lucy, after being a childminder for six years, she decided to adapt her business model and set up a first aid business using her qualifications. Read Lucy's experience.
Combining childminding with Usborne Books - Emily
As a newly self-employed person with a small setting, childminder Emily was not eligible for any of the government grants or financial support. However, by turning her love of literacy towards selling books in her own time, working around her existing business commitments, she's been able to continue running her setting without worrying about the costs. Read Emily's story.
Developing a business and supporting the community - Laura (Under1Roof)
Founder-Director Laura James talks about developing her business Theratre Tots, into a business that can support the community and not only offer childcare but create a place where families can access a range of activities and services - Under1Roof. She talks about the challenges of Covid and how she building her business back. Read Laura's story.
Using the 50/50 rule (England only) - Charlotte G
Charlotte took advantage of the 50/50 rule which meant she was able to operate as a childminder and operate on non-domestic premises for 50 per cent of the time. She taks about how she has managed this, as well as the struggles faced through Covid. Read Charlotte G's story.
Parent perspectives
Benefits of flexibility - Kate
Mum Kate has really valued the flexibility of her childminder. Read her experience talking about how working together with her childminder to adapt to ever changing circumstances such as changing work hours has meant her children continue to attend a setting they love.
Exploring at home childcare - Bethany
Bethany decided that during the summer, she would feel more comfortable keeping her children at home. While her and her husband worked from home, hiring a manny was one way they managed the situation. Read Bethany's experience.
Additional resources
