SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Do you worry about new mums and loved ones on their own? Or you are looking to earn some extra money by lending a hand? Then this is for you.

It’s a common worry for many of us; new mums as well as loved ones across Kent and beyond are in need of assistance even if it’s something as simple as some housework, cooking or just a bit of company.

Now here’s another worry; do you or someone you know need some extra money?

One businesswoman in Tunbridge Wells has come up with a brilliant online solution by linking the two together to come up with Close to Hand.

“I wanted to create something that would allow people of all ages the choice, flexibility and control to source help as and when they required it whilst - at the same time - provide a platform for people to find local, flexible work that served a purpose in their community,” said Close to Hand founder Lindsey Nathan.

“The reaction from helpers has been of overwhelming support.

“As soon as I opened up the service and the first few connections were made, people were already beginning to recognise the benefits of finding local, flexible work.

“Those founding members have been instrumental in helping me spread the word. It really does feel like a community and I have been humbled by the support.”

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CLOSE TO HAND

Close to Hand’s online service makes it easy to arrange practical help and companionship whilst also enabling local people to find flexible work with a purpose.

Rather than being simply another agency and instead based on trust and support, Close to Hand is an online platform matching local home helpers with anyone looking for an extra pair of hands on an ad hoc, short term or regular basis.

All members of the community connect directly with each other via the website’s secure messaging service.

“Close to Hand has been so well received and it’s working,” continued Lindsey.

“As a small business owner, when you set out to build something - no matter how hard you work and how much you believe in it - there is always doubt that it won’t be well received.

“My measure of success is that people of all ages are using the service, reaching out for help at different stages of their lives and connecting with new people. Close to Hand is making a difference.”

Close to Hand offers a variety of different ways in which help can be provided.

The registered helpers set their own availability and hourly rate which can be viewed on their online profile on the website.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CLOSE TO HAND

With fees typically set between £8 and £12 per hour, it provides an affordable and flexible option.

“One helper in Sevenoaks provides assistance in the garden and companionship to an older lady on one day and then provides home help to a new mum on another day.

“Another helper in Tunbridge Wells provides companionship to a lady with dementia and a gentleman from Tonbridge has been receiving home help since last year following the death of his wife.

“His helper is teaching him how to cook. I love nothing more than receiving testimonials from people. Their stories are all so varied.”

It’s been a busy time for Lindsey as she is already looking at taking Close to Hand further down the road.

At the moment, she has her hands full building the service in the South East as well as ensuring that all members continue to have the very best experience using the site and making connections.

“It would be wonderful to eventually see Close to Hand making connections throughout the UK”.

For more information about Close to Hand, visit the official website by clicking here.