World Mental Health Day is a reminder that behind every business, target, booking, and milestone is a real person trying to balance it all.
Running your own business is hugely rewarding, but it can also feel isolating at times. Long hours, the pressure to succeed, and the constant decision-making can quickly lead to stress or self-doubt. It’s easy to think you have to manage everything by yourself.
Research from Simply Business found that almost half of UK small business owners have struggled with their mental health over the past year – nearly double the rate of the general workforce. Working alone, financial worries, and the demands of being your own boss all play a part.
But with us, you’re never on your own.
At The Holiday Franchise Company, we recognise these challenges. That’s why we’ve built a supportive community around our franchisees, so you always have someone to turn to.
How We Support Our Franchisees
1. HFC Forum
No one has all the answers, which is why we created our online forum. It’s a place where franchisees can ask questions, share advice, and learn from each other’s experiences. The collective knowledge of our network means you’re supported by people who genuinely understand the journey.
2. Hear to Help
Every month, we run Hear to Help sessions, one-to-one meetings with a member of our support team. These give you the chance to review your business, talk through enquiries, set new goals, or simply have a safe space to chat. Our team are trained Mental Health Champions, so we can support you on both a professional and personal level.
“We wouldn’t be without Kim’s Hear to Help sessions. She’s approachable, knowledgeable, and her guidance has really helped us grow our business. Having someone to bounce ideas around with makes us feel part of a supported team.”
– Sarah & Nic, Mapping Your Travel
3. Stay Connected
Each month, we host an open call for all franchisees. These sessions are designed to keep you up to date, share best practices, and connect with the wider community.
“The Stay Connected sessions are so valuable. Working from home can feel lonely, but having that social interaction, updates, and shared ideas really helps keep me motivated and reassured.”
– Suzie, Cochoa Travel
4. Work With Us
Once a month, we invite franchisees to spend a day at our office. It’s a chance to work side by side with the team, ask questions in person, and connect with our in-house tour operator Elegant Escapes.
“It was just amazing working with you all today – thank you for the help, the yummy lunch and the giggles! I feel so lucky to have HFC backing me as I grow my business.”
– Helen, Wine Travel Expert
5. Refresh & Recharge
We’ve recently introduced Refresh & Recharge, quarterly online training sessions designed to help you pause, reset, and pick up fresh ideas. Our first session will focus on forward planning for January peak season, giving franchisees practical strategies to boost sales and start the year strong.
6. Summer & Christmas Celebration
Running your own business shouldn’t mean missing out on connection. That’s why we launched our Summer Celebrations. A mix of learning, fun, and networking. Franchisees enjoyed supplier training, team activities, and plenty of time to share tips and experiences.
The response was so positive that we have now added a Christmas Celebration too!
“Spending the day with other franchisees was such a reminder that we’re all in this together. We celebrated achievements, shared ideas, and left feeling energised. This community really does support each other.”
– Bridget, World Class Adventures
7. Annual Conference
Our annual two-day conference is the highlight of the year. It brings together franchisees, suppliers, and the HFC team for networking, training, and celebrations. It’s a time to reflect on successes, recognise achievements, and leave inspired for the year ahead.
8. HFC Teams
Taking a proper break can be tough as a small business owner. That’s why we created HFC Teams. A system where franchisees can cover for each other while on holiday. It means you can truly switch off, knowing your clients are well looked after by people you trust.
We believe no one should face the challenges of business ownership alone. Through training, mentoring, events, and community support, we make sure our franchisees are equipped not just to run a business, but to enjoy the journey too.
