Start a mobile complementary therapy business

Busy professionals, older or less mobile people, new parents, employers running staff wellbeing days and organisers of events such as parties and fairs.

A fee per visit, often with a small travel charge, plus fees for workplace sessions and event bookings. Chair massage at a company can be charged per hour, with several short sessions back to back.

• A recognised qualification in your chosen therapy
• Reliable and punctual
• Comfortable working in other people's spaces
• Basic route and diary planning

• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance that covers treating at other people's premises
• Check whether your council requires a licence or registration for the treatments you offer
• Personal safety when visiting new clients, such as sharing your diary and checking details first
• Travel time is unpaid, so set prices and area to cover it
• Advertising rules: avoid medical claims (check ASA and CAP guidance)
• Check your vehicle insurance covers business use

Startup costs are typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on your couch, supplies, insurance and any training. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at £300 to £2,500, depending on how many clients you see and how far you travel.

Things to check: professional indemnity and public liability insurance that covers treating at other people's premises, whether your council requires a licence or registration for your treatments, and that your vehicle insurance covers business use. Avoid medical claims in advertising and check ASA and CAP guidance.

A recognised qualification in your chosen therapy is expected. Estimates suggest at least 8 hours a week. You also need to be punctual, comfortable working in other people's spaces and able to plan your diary and routes.