Rebecca explains how Two Homes, the only free resource website of its kind, helps families manage this stressful time.

Rebecca,  what was the idea that first got the ball rolling?

When I separated from my son’s father I was committed to trying to doing the best that I could so that my son went through as little pain and suffering as possible. At the time I often felt like my world had been turned upside down and I searched for information and tools to guide me and help mange the process.

During this tough time everything changes and sometimes it’s hard enough just getting through the day let alone trying to manage my new parenting arrangements. As a tech savy mama I searched for an efficient way to help me communicate with my former partner and keep him up to date on information about our child – in an easy, no fuss way. I was shocked that nothing was available and immediately started to think up ways that I could build my own system.

What got you excited enough about the idea to put it into motion?

I was driven to set up www.twohomes.com.au because I truly believed that I could add value and help other separated families. My passion for the area quickly grew as I became more educated on the topic and realised how big an issue this was. With over 50,000 families separating each year and over 1.1 million kids in Australia living with separated parents I instantly saw the importance of what I wanted to achieve.

Where did the name for your business spring from?

The Two Homes name came about as a result of a fantastic brain storiming session with a group of parents who all had experience of working through the issues of separation, divorce and parenting.

How is Two Homes unique?

Two Homes is Australia’s only free online resource that provides Australian single parents with information, tools and resources that guide and empower them to do what ever they need to, to help them and their children through this difficult time.

 What was the most difficult part in getting your business off the ground?

The hardest part of my journey has been the time it has taken to get our online organiser up and running. We are now up to our 3rd set of developers and this all takes a lot of money, time and energy. Sourcing capital to fund the software development was also extremely challenging, for some reason institutions were not that keen to back a single mum with a passion to help other parents

Has any part of your business gone down a different path than you first anticipated?

Initially my goal was to create an online tool that would help manage my parenting arrangements. However, during this process I realised that I was not alone in the frustration I experienced in trying to find out what I needed to do during the separation and divorce process. It was clear to me that there was a real need to provide separated parents with information, resources and services, all in one place. Consequently, www.twohomes.com.au was born and is now the core foundation of my business.

What do you enjoy most about running your business?

I love receiving positive feedback from separated parents and professional organisations who work with separation and children issues daily. I get a real buzz when someone lets me know that we have had a positive impact on their lives.

Do you belong to any networks that have helped you grow your business?

At present I don’t belong to any formal networking groups. However, being an online business I believe in the power of social networks and groups and utilise the power of LinkedIn, Twitter and online forums and groups daily.

What are your future goals for Two Homes?

Next step for Two Homes is to provide separated families with the ability to connect and support each other through online communities.

 What advice would you give another woman wanting to start a business of her own?

Make sure you’re passionate about what you’re doing, as there will be tough times! It’s during these times that you will need to dig deep and draw strength from your belief and dedication to your business idea.