In celebration of the upcoming International Women’s Day leading home and pet-sitting company, Homesitters Ltd, is shining a spotlight on how homesitting empowers women in retirement, offering opportunities to stay active, embrace new experiences, and achieve financial independence.
Retired Women & Homesitting
Recent figures from Oxford Risk reveal that 41% of retired women are more inclined to consider part-time work than men, while additional studies link social and interactive activities to increased happiness and well-being in later life. Homesitting uniquely blends purpose, companionship, adventure, and financial benefits, making it an ideal choice for women seeking more from their retirement years.
Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters Ltd, said: “Homesitting is more than just a role; it is a way to achieve independence and self-fulfilment. Women thrive in this role because it offers not only extra income but also the freedom to explore new places, the joy of caring for animals without long-term commitments, and the satisfaction of providing peace of mind to homeowners. It’s a perfect way to stay active and create new adventures in retirement.”
Homesitting and Petsitting
Susan Ferguson, a retired lady from Hornsea in West Yorkshire has started homesitting after retiring from a busy career as a manager in the mental health service in 2016. She now works full time as a homesitter as she was determined to keep as busy and active as she had always been.

Susan comments:”Homesitting isn’t just a job; it’s a declaration of independence, I love the freedom it gives me to go where I want, when I want. Each assignment is a new adventure, and I feel stronger, more self-reliant, and more confident with every sit. It keeps me active, engaged, and financially secure. Plus, the companionship of pets adds so much joy to my life.”
Fab Part-Time Work
Julie Wade, from Dartford in Kent tried to retire twice and on her third attempt she decided to take up home and pet sitting to fill her time: “After retiring, I missed the structure and connection I had in my career. Homesitting filled that gap. It gives me a routine, a reason to get up early, and the joy of being needed again—by both pets and homeowners. It’s empowering to know I can do this for myself, and I’ve met incredible people and pets along the way.”

Margaret Mackleworth has done over 200 homesits. She says: “I love the independence homesitting offers. It’s just me, the pets, and new surroundings to explore. There’s a real sense of accomplishment in managing everything on my own. It’s also exciting to constantly be discovering new places. I’ve built so much confidence through this experience.”
Homesitters Ltd is actively recruiting for 2025. They want reliable, animal-loving individuals who want to stay active, travel, and earn extra income. For many women, homesitting isn’t just about caring for homes and pets. It’s also about reclaiming their independence, building confidence, and thriving in retirement.
To find out more about turning homesitting into a rewarding opportunity, visit: www.homesitters.co.uk

About Homesitters Ltd
Homesitters Ltd, established in 1980, and is now the UK’s leading nationwide live-in home and pet sitting company. It has looked after 100,000 plus bookings and has an extensive network of employees throughout England, Scotland and Wales.
We vet all homesitters and they are all conscientious, sensible and responsible homeowners. Many have been pet owners and have experience looking after all different types of animals. 70% of new clients re-book with Homesitters within two years and many have been clients since the 1980s.