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Phil Eckersley

Founder, Bridgewater Home Care

As the founder and managing director of Bridgewater Home Care, I have full responsibility and oversight over all functions of the organisation, from the delivery of care in local communities to supporting our franchisees grow and develop their own businesses in their local areas.

I regularly liaise with the operational teams to ensure quality standards are being maintained and hold company-wide meetings to share best practices and develop our processes. I am also heavily involved in the establishment and set-up of any new Bridgewater Home Care franchises that are opened.

Areas of expertise

I have regular meetings with the operational team, along with holding monthly meetings with new franchisees. I also hold regular training and support sessions for franchisees and deep dive into any challenges that franchisees are facing to seek solutions and ways forward.

I’m dedicated to reducing the human time needed in compliance with CQC regulations by embracing technology where safe and effective to do so. Improving the life journey of those wishing to remain at home, rather than being forced into a more institutionalised setting.

Recognitions

  • First Class BSc Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying
  • PGCert Strategic Leadership for Directors

I’m also passionate about working with NHS professionals to continue improving issues surrounding patient discharge into the community and supporting those who need continued care at home.

Over 15 years (since October 2010)

Home care start-up

Financial planning

Strategy and goal setting

Process development

Workflow automations and agentic AI

Get in touch with Phil today

    read article
    News 26/02/26

    The Social Care Summit North: Roundup

    Last month, our Managing Director, Phil Eckersley, joined a selection of respected care leaders from across the country at the Laing Buisson Social Care Summit North to chat all about the future of the operating environment for care providers, looking ahead to the next 12 months in home care franchises and what may be in store for the industry.

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    Franchise Opportunities 05/02/26

    Advantages of a Franchise vs Starting a Business from Scratch

    Taking the first step to starting your own business can be daunting but equally exciting. The freedom of being your own boss, having control over your career and establishing financial security are all appealing reasons for making this choice, but how do you start? Should you invest in a franchise or start a new business from scratch? Whilst the idea of creative and structural freedom is appealing for starting an independent business, it also comes with its own set of risks and uncertainties. Franchising however, offers a level of structure and security, balanced with independence.

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    Franchise Opportunities 09/01/26

    What Is a Franchise and How Does It Work?

    Thinking about starting your own business but daunted by the risks of going it alone? A care franchise could be the perfect solution. But how does a franchise work? Essentially, franchising allows you to run your own business while leveraging an established brand, proven systems, and ongoing support from the franchisor. This approach gives you the independence of being a business owner with the security of a tried-and-tested model.

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    Franchise Opportunities 09/01/26

    5 Reasons to Invest in a UK Franchise

    Are you looking to start your own business and wondering if opening a franchise in the UK is worth it? Starting a business can feel daunting, and with many different options out there, it can become quickly overwhelming when deciding which path to take. For many people in the UK, franchising has become a great way to start a business without the stress and worry of doing it alone.

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    Franchise Opportunities 09/01/26

    What are franchise owners responsible for?

    So, you’re thinking about becoming a franchisee, but wondering how it works, and exactly what you will be responsible for? Owning a franchise is a fantastic way to start a business, but with the help and support of an established business. If you are considering opening a franchise with Bridgewater Home Care, it’s important to understand the difference between franchisor vs franchisee and exactly what franchise ownership entails.

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    News 24/10/25

    Dementia Care: Why quality, culture, and dementia expertise will define the next decade

    Domiciliary care is expanding at a record pace, driven by demographic change and growing demand for people to receive support in their own homes. Yet, the very services that make independence possible for older and vulnerable people are facing the toughest conditions we’ve seen in decades. For those of us who have dedicated our careers to building sustainable, person-centred homecare businesses, this year’s report is both a wake-up call and a moment of opportunity.