Starting a business is never easy, and in a highly regulated sector like healthcare, the challenges can feel insurmountable. For Mustafa Hersi, Ibrahim Hersi, and their team at Bridge Care Group, navigating these hurdles was a daunting task. However, through the BEC Amplify Programme, they found the guidance, support, and expertise needed to establish a sustainable and growing business.
Bridge Care Group was founded by Amina, Mustafa and Ibrahim’s sister, a dedicated clinical nurse with extensive frontline experience. Witnessing firsthand the gaps in care—particularly during the pandemic, when the strain on healthcare systems became undeniable—she was determined to make a difference. Driven by a commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality care, Amina established Bridge Care Group with a clear mission: to enhance the lives of vulnerable adults through professionalism, efficiency, and a genuinely person-centred approach. Together, they set out to bridge the gaps in care and create a service that prioritises dignity, respect, and excellence.
Discovering the Amplify Programme
When Bridge Care Group was first established, Mustafa and Ibrahim sought out resources to help them navigate the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
"We first heard about the Amplify Programme through connections within our company," Mustafa recalls. "We needed help at the beginning because it was just a couple of us. Amplify was one of the options available, and given our position at the time, we decided to go forward with it. It helped us a lot in terms of starting up and being able to do what we’re doing today."
From those modest beginnings, the business has grown significantly. "At first, it was just the three of us. Now, seven years later, there are about seven of us, including family members who bring diverse experiences—from medical backgrounds to engineering," Mustafa adds. "Everyone’s input has been invaluable."
From vision to reality
The idea for Bridge Care Group was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of upheaval but also opportunity. Many businesses struggled or collapsed, but Mustafa and Ibrahim saw a chance to make a meaningful impact in an industry that was lacking in their area.
"After COVID, when everything shut down, we saw many companies go bankrupt, but at the same time, we saw opportunities," Mustafa explains. "We wanted to create something with our name on it, something that could be a legacy—not just for us, but for our kids and future generations. With my sister’s medical background, we realised just how much the country needed support in the care sector. It was the perfect avenue for us."
Overcoming challenges in the care sector
Running a care company in London presents unique challenges, from choosing the right location to navigating complex regulatory requirements. Ibrahim discusses their early struggles:
"One of the biggest challenges was deciding where to start. London is vast, with nine million people, and competition is fierce. We needed to find an area where we wouldn’t face too much direct competition but could still expand later. We held regular meetings to strategise—where to start, how to start, and what resources we had available."
Beyond logistics, financial constraints and staff retention were also pressing concerns. "Funding was a challenge in the beginning," Ibrahim admits. "We also had to figure out how to be as efficient as possible while minimising costs. Retaining staff was difficult too—we didn’t have many resources at the start, and that made it hard to keep people on board."
The impact of the Amplify Programme
The BEC Amplify Programme proved to be a game-changer. It provided practical guidance on financial management, marketing, and business operations, allowing Bridge Care Group to not only survive but thrive.
"At first, we were a bit lost in terms of direction," Ibrahim shares. "Amplify helped us with finance, kickstarted our marketing, and made sure people knew about us. Nowadays, everything is online, and without that visibility, it’s hard to grow."
Mustafa and Ibrahim attended multiple workshops, each offering invaluable insights. "We owe Amplify a lot," Ibrahim states. “The tips and guidance we received helped us land our first client, which was crucial to keeping us open. We also learned about social value and sustainability—things we initially thought were just buzzwords but turned out to be essential for business success."
Gaining practical business knowledge
Beyond operational strategies, the Amplify Programme provided crucial knowledge on securing contracts and reaching clients.
"We learned about different ways to approach clients—whether through private channels or local councils," Ibrahim notes. "Right now, with funding issues in certain areas, we were advised to focus on private clients who can arrange care independently. We also discovered how to leverage digital platforms like Instagram to connect with potential service users."
Another key takeaway was understanding the importance of adapting to industry trends. "One of the workshops covered emerging business trends like AI and automation," Mustafa shares. "We realised how technology can streamline our processes and improve efficiency. For instance, we started using Birdie, a platform that helps automate our services, making operations smoother."
Advice for future entrepreneurs
For those considering the BEC Amplify Programme, Mustafa and Ibrahim have a clear message: go for it.
"Don’t hesitate," Mustafa advises. "There’s very little to lose and so much to gain. Just try your best and see where it takes you."
Ibrahim adds: "With AI and rapid business advancements, it’s easy to fall behind if you don’t make use of the tools available. Programmes like Amplify bridge those gaps in knowledge and open doors you wouldn’t have otherwise known about."
Bridge Care Group’s journey is a testament to what’s possible with the right support, determination, and commitment to making a difference. Thanks to the BEC Amplify Programme, they’ve not only built a business but are shaping a lasting legacy in the care sector.
