Our Patients: Louise Thompson
This year we are thrilled to have launched the Patient Entrepreneur Programme.
In this series we speak to our new patient entrepreneurs and find out why they decided to innovate. This week we are pleased to welcome Louise Thompson, Founder and CEO of Myfolks Ltd.
Tell us a bit about yourself
My career began within the NHS, where I worked for an exceptional consultant, who gave me exposure to numerous research opportunities and eventually had the privilege of being published in a medical journal. This achievement allowed me to apply to Northumberland University, where, despite having minimal qualifications, I was granted a place in a law degree programme.
The opportunity to pursue law propelled me into a 25-year career in corporate technology. During this time, I specialised in delivering legal and commercially adept tech solutions, led teams, and advanced to senior executive positions. Subsequently, I completed my master’s in science and obtained qualifications as a company director through the Institute of Directors.
Name: Louise Thompson
Occupation: Founder and CEO at Myfolks Ltd.
Whilst residing in the South, in the North my parents were diagnosed with two distinct types of dementia. They would frequently call me, disoriented and fearful about everyday tasks like operating the TV or opening letters. Driven by concern, I would secretly leave work, embark on a 320-mile journey in my car, and provide support to my parents. The exhaustion was overwhelming and what I truly desired was a simple button on my phone—a way to summon someone to check on my parents, as the visits from carers and befrienders were too infrequent.
Identifying this gap, in 2019, I embarked on the Ageing Accelerator programme, where I began developing an idea. My goal was to build a business plan, but unfortunately, the pandemic-induced lockdown intervened, and I lost my father.
However, as the lockdown eased, I was deeply moved by the heartbreaking stories of social isolation. Recognising the dangers of loneliness, I knew I had a solution that could make a meaningful impact. Research underscores the risks associated with isolation, including increased rates of cardiac disease, chronic illness, and hospitalisation—factors that further strain our healthcare system.
Driven by this awareness, I self-funded the development of MyFolks, with a mission to reduce social isolation, enabling people to lead less lonely and happier lives.
Tell us about your innovation
MyFolks is a service and app that provides compassionate support visits to elderly individuals in their own homes, aiming to reduce social isolation and promote overall wellness.
Carers or family members can conveniently use their phones to schedule visits from MyFolkers whenever needed. These visits offer practical assistance, social connection, and crucial support, all of which play a vital role in maintaining health and mitigating the risk of isolation through meaningful connections.
Our ‘MyFolkers’ undergo rigorous vetting, including an enhanced DBS check, adherence to our code of business principles, and thorough reference checks. Above all, alignment with our core values—particularly compassion—is paramount to us as a team. Additionally, our flexible working model enables individuals who have been out of work to explore rewarding careers in health and social care, tailored to their needs.
Why did you apply to join the programme, and what are you most looking forward to?
My career has taken me all around the world, but I will never forget my humble beginning within the NHS and the doors it opened for me. It changed the course of my life and I aspire to bring MyFolks into the NHS as a means of providing vital support.
The programme’s exceptional impact, the support it offers, and the personal growth it fosters make me feel profoundly privileged to be part of this community. Within this safe space, we support one-another, discuss challenges, and share experiences.
I have found immense inspiration in the founders’ stories on the programme and I’ve had the privilege of connecting with diverse individuals from all walks of life, united by a shared commitment to making a positive difference within the NHS.
What motivates you?
I am deeply passionate about education, and my motivation stems from seeing a need and producing a solution that could support families who have faced similar challenges to my own.
What are your ambitions for the next year?
As we move forward, our goal is to amplify awareness of MyFolks, fostering greater uptake, collaborations, and impact nationwide. This entails developing a robust marketing strategy and engaging with additional communities in need of support. Initially, we aim to assist coastal cities, which often contend with a high aging population and limited public sector resources, and then we’ll expand our reach to other regions
In addition, we are actively exploring a hospital discharge solution as returning home can be challenging, especially for individuals who may be isolated. Our approach involves practical assistance, such as turning on lights and heating, to facilitate a smoother transition back home.
What is your key piece of advice to aspiring patient entrepreneurs?
Understanding your core values is crucial; they serve as the driving force behind your endeavours. Equally important is considering sustainability when establishing your own business. This encompasses financial viability and safeguarding your personal well-being. Be sure to create a comprehensive plan before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey.
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