Background

The idea for the business was born in 2013 while helping a friend move her parents to a retirement village. It became apparent that it was difficult for her mum and dad to let go of some of their belongings that they had for a long time and that formed part of their personal identity: tools, hobby materials, paintings. As a third party, more than my friend, who had an emotional investment, I was able to guide her parents through the process of deciding what they were going to keep and what could be sold, given away or donated to charity organisations.

Business structure

Handle With Care is set up as a social enterprise.  A social enterprise is an organisation that seeks to tackle social, cultural or environmental challenges.  Like a traditional business, a social enterprise sells goods and services.  However, instead of profits being distributed to shareholders or individuals, they are used to support the organisation’s mission. For more information on the structure and setup of social enterprises, read more on the website developed by the Department of Internal Affairs.

Testimonials

”Willemien helped me enormously just when I needed it. Not only did she help with packing everything when I sold my house, she was there to help again when I moved into my new home.” 

Mrs M. Geerlings, Martinborough

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About the Director

Dr Willemien Vermaat is the Managing Director of Handle With Care. She has a track record of providing support to people of all walks of life, ages, cultural backgrounds and income levels.

​Her passion is to support and guide people through times of transition. She has worked as project manager, event organiser, student advisor, tutor and coordinator of volunteers.

In December 2016 she became mum of a beautiful baby girl which made her realise how important it is to look after all people; whether you are young, middle-aged or old, we are all important.