
Episode #2
Four way Conversation about the 'Future, Possibility & the Power of Independent Care'
What if the future of care isn’t a bigger system, but a more human one? Maria Tomlinson, Jenni Palmer, Nikki Brinkworth and Sadie reveal why independent, relationship-led care is becoming the model to watch and why the people already doing the work are demanding to be seen as professionals, not after thoughts. This opening episode of Series 4 brings together four voices from the independent care landscape for a frank, hopeful conversation about what care could look like if time, dignity and connection were treated as essentials, not luxuries. From self-employed carers and micro-providers to the communities they serve, the discussion explores what isn’t working, what is, and what needs to change. You’ll hear: Why rigid, task-led care can miss the needs of older people and families How self-employed carers can provide personalised, proactive support Why Maria makes the case for a third model of care beyond agencies and care homes What Nikki believes is needed to professionalise and unify independent care How Jenni sees families struggling with confusing assessments and inconsistent processes Why Sadie believes commissioning, community partnerships and local knowledge could help transform care Maria, founder of the Professional Carers Network, shares her vision for independent care workers to be recognised as professionals in their own right. Jenni brings more than 12 years of experience as a self-employed carer and PCN lead for Devon, including insight into the paperwork, delays and gaps families face. Nikki, with over 30 years in care and a Level 7 qualification in health and social care, calls for clearer pathways and greater recognition. Sadie, founder of Continuing the Care with Sadie and PCN lead for Gloucestershire, describes a future built on community over competition, connection over compliance and presence over perfection. If you care about the future of social care, the value of carers or what person-centred support looks like in practice, this conversation is for you especially if you’re an independent carer, micro-provider, family member navigating care or someone who wants to see a more human approach to the sector. This is a powerful start to Series 4 and a call to imagine care not just as it is, but as it could be: more accessible, more connected and rooted in genuine human relationships. Important Links: PCN (Professional Carers Network): www.skool.com/procarernetwork Or follow us on social media: https://www.professionalcarer.com/ https://www.facebook.com/professionalcarersnetwork https://www.tiktok.com/@maria_pcn https://www.youtube.com/@professionalcarersnetwork https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-tomlinson/ https://www.instagram.com/professionalcarersnetwork Facebook Pages:Wiltshire/Niki: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1359955395273136/ Devon/Jenni: https://www.facebook.com/groups/devonselfemployedcarerssupport/ Gloucestershire/Sadie: https://www.facebook.com/groups/685576234290928/ https://substack.com/@sadieravening






