Jodie Fraser, of Fraser Allen Estate Management, shares how crazy March has shaped up to be for her company

It’s March! The first month of Spring and the month the clocks go forward this month so it will be lighter nights and less time asleep! It was also the Budget this month! What does the world of business look like this week?

Today we're talking to Jodie Fraser, founder and CEO of Fraser Allen Estate Management which is an award-winning block management specialist in the residential sector. With their head office in Cheltenham, the team also covers Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire.

How is March looking for you in your business?
In March, I had the opportunity to attend an International Women's Day event in London organised by Doyenne in Property. It was a great honour for us to be a part of this event. I are proud to announce that I won the Mentor of the Year award, recognising my commitment and support to others in the team and beyond. Additionally, our Operations Manager Alice was highly commended for the Property Manager of the Year award, highlighting her exceptional skills and dedication.

Are you taking part in any wider events or business collaborations this month?
In our ongoing efforts to support our residents within our managed blocks, we have recently collaborated with So Fresh and So Clean Ltd to provide Mental Health Crisis Cleans. We understand the importance of creating a safe and clean environment for individuals who may be going through a mental health crisis. This collaboration allows us to provide specialised cleaning services that prioritise the well-being and comfort of our residents during challenging times.

Additionally, we are participating in industry conferences and seminars to stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in property management, specifically Leasehold London organised by News on the Block, which was held on March 20th. These events provide us with valuable insights and networking opportunities, allowing us to continuously improve our practices and stay ahead of the curve.

The Budget took place on March 6. What did you think of it?
It is unfortunate to note that the lack of support for dementia care in the budget will be felt by families across the country. Dementia is a challenging condition that requires specialised care and support. Adequate funding and resources are crucial to ensure that individuals living with dementia and their families receive the necessary assistance to maintain their quality of life.

It is our hope that in the future, government budgets will allocate more support and resources towards dementia care, recognising the significant impact it has on individuals and their families. I will continue to advocate for increased awareness and funding in this area, as we believe it is crucial to prioritise the well-being of those living with dementia and to keep people living in their much-loved homes for as long as possible. 

This month it’s International Women’s Day, St David’s Day, National No Smoking Day. Is there an awareness day or week this month which is important to you or your business?
Endometriosis Awareness Month, which takes place in March, is an important campaign that aims to raise awareness about endometriosis, a chronic condition that affects millions of women worldwide, including myself. While endometriosis primarily impacts women's health, it can also have significant implications for female business owners, including those working in male-dominated industries like property management.

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing chronic pain, fertility issues, and various other symptoms. These symptoms can often be debilitating and have a significant impact on an individual's physical and mental well-being. For female business owners, managing a business while dealing with the challenges of endometriosis can be particularly demanding.

In the property management industry, which is traditionally male-dominated, women may face additional challenges when it comes to managing their businesses while living with endometriosis. The physical pain and discomfort associated with the condition can affect their ability to carry out day-to-day tasks, attend meetings, or engage in physically demanding activities. This can result in a potential impact on their productivity and overall business performance.

Ultimately, it is important for society as a whole to recognise the impact of endometriosis and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business. By doing so, we can empower female business owners in property management and other industries to thrive and succeed, regardless of the challenges posed by endometriosis.

March is also Mother’s Day (March 10) is this an important day for your business?
As a mother myself to a 4-year-old daughter, Mother's Day is a time to celebrate and honour the incredible love, sacrifices, and guidance that mothers and mother figures provide.

Would you like to share your thoughts about your mother, a mother figure in your life or your life with a mother or as a mother?
My admiration for my own mother and grandmother plays a significant role in how I approach Mother's Day and I deeply appreciate the love, support, and wisdom they have shared with me throughout my life, specifically the support my mother has shown me during my time as a business owner. 

In the yearly cycle of your business – what do you expect during March?
It’s usually a busy month for the business as we plan our external works around this time, although with the changes in weather conditions this can sometimes need to change. 

We always try to hold meetings with our clients to provide insights into planned works and the best solutions to major works. 

You can find out more about Fraser Allen Estate Management by visiting their website www.fraserallenem.co.uk