Discover how a retired couple, Barbara and Lawrence Blackwood, aged 72 and 75, have found a unique way to earn money and explore the UK through home-sitting.
Barbara, a retired administrative secretary, and Lawrence, a former police officer, embarked on their home-sitting journey in 2017 to keep active during retirement. Home-sitting entails taking care of someone’s residence while they are away, including tending to their pets.
This dynamic duo now engages in approximately one home-sit per month, amounting to nearly six months away from their own abode each year. Barbara expressed, “After retiring, we didn’t want to sit around. Home-sitting really fits the bill.”
Home-sitters can earn a minimum of £333.06 for a two-week assignment without pets. Caring for two dogs and a cat for the same duration pays £367.92. The responsibilities involve about one hour and 45 minutes of daily duties, along with a daily food allowance. Moreover, travel expenses are covered, including initial meetings and commute to and from assignments.
Barbara and Lawrence, residing in Perthshire, Scotland, have also managed to save on utility bills, especially during the chilly winter months. Barbara estimated savings of around £47 per month during a winter assignment lasting three to four weeks, totaling an average saving of £31 per month from September to April.
Additionally, travel expenses to and from assignments are reimbursed, often set aside for vacations. A daily food allowance is provided, along with a modest payment for the assignments. Depending on the tasks, such as pet care, there may be an extra payment.
The couple’s travels across Scotland have been enriched by their home-sitting experiences, enabling them to explore various locations they might not have otherwise visited. Lawrence emphasized, “We’ve been all over Scotland and loved every place we’ve been to. We’ve looked after a wide variety of animals and enjoyed every sit. The flexibility and variety are what make it so special.”
He added, “It’s like a mini-break—a self-catering holiday. There are responsibilities involved, but it’s all rewarding and satisfying. We really enjoy knowing that we’re enabling someone to go on a well-deserved holiday without worrying about their pets.”
Barbara highlighted that their top priority is the well-being of the animals under their care, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and comfortable in their routine. Their dedication has led to numerous repeat assignments, with one family welcoming them back regularly since their inception in 2017.
The couple shared their contentment with their home-sitting lifestyle, with Barbara stating, “We’ve never looked back. It’s given us a lifestyle we truly love.”