Gemma, who runs Mini First Aid Manchester, talks to us about why she joined Mini First Aid and what she loves about her job.
How did you first hear about Mini First Aid?
I saw a Mini First Aid post on Facebook and decided to find out more. I was working as cabin crew for a large airline and the aviation first aid was always my favourite part of our training, so it appealed immediately. I had previously worked as a primary school teacher, so I liked the idea of combining my teaching experience with my first aid knowledge.
How did you decide to buy a Mini First Aid franchise?
Whilst I enjoyed the travel that came with my job, once I had my daughter Florence, who is now 3, I didn’t want to be away from her as often. I’d also been doing the same job for 10 years and I wanted something more rewarding and fulfilling. The more I found out about Kate and Mini First Aid, the more convinced I was that it was the perfect opportunity for me.
What do you enjoy most about working for Mini First Aid?
I feel as though I’ve found my perfect job. I love running first aid classes for parents as I really feel as though I’m doing something worthwhile and making a difference.
I’m also the Early Years Champion for Mini First Aid, so using my training as an Early Years teacher I pilot new launches, such as our latest ‘Sit Chop Chew’ Early Years class, which is aimed at educating young children about how to eat properly to prevent choking. I also help to train the other franchisees in working with young children and support new trainers to come on board, which I really enjoy.
It sounds cheesy but Mini First Aid really is like a big family – it’s so different from working for a big organisation. We recently had our annual training weekend where we all get together for training updates and to share knowledge (as well as having a lot of fun getting to know each other better!) and I was completely overwhelmed when the other franchisees voted me their trainer of the year; I can safely say that my confidence and self-esteem have well and truly recovered through my successes at Mini First Aid.
What are the benefits of being a franchisee?
The support we get from Head Office is brilliant – they help with Marketing, Social Media, PR and make sure that we are all really confident in what we’re doing. The other franchisees are a great support network, and it’s great being able to run my own business, whilst also having the back-up support of Mini First Aid HQ – it really is the best of both worlds.
How has joining Mini First Aid affected you personally?
At the end of my maternity leave, my confidence was low and I felt like I’d lost direction and self-esteem. Joining Mini First Aid has given me a new purpose and a job I love that fits perfectly around my daughter – I really can’t imagine doing anything else now.
Finally, what would you say to someone who was thinking about joining Mini First Aid?
I would recommend Mini First Aid to anyone. It’s a great job for anyone with small children, as you’ll already have a good network of potential customers!
If you’re looking for a flexible job that you can fit around your family, with great support, then I really don’t think you can beat Mini First Aid. We’re a really happy bunch and welcome all newcomers with open arms – we’re all about keeping children safe so the more the merrier.
Click here to watch Gemma's video.
Click here to register your interest in becoming a Mini First Aid franchisee and we will be in touch with more details.
Click here to find your local Mini First Aid class.
Click here to buy our first aid kits and books
