As the UK’s affluent population ages, a distinctive new type of household role is becoming more common. It sits somewhere between a traditional personal assistant and a trusted companion, offering practical lifestyle support and company rather than clinical care. At Marshall Harber, we have seen a steady increase in requests for live-in travelling PA/Companions — particularly for independent, mature principals who remain active but value consistent, discreet support.

Why This Role Is Emerging

Many clients in later life are still fit, socially engaged and intellectually sharp. What they often lack is reliable day-to-day company and organisational support, especially when a spouse travels or family members live at a distance. The result is a demand for someone who can combine administrative competence with genuine interpersonal warmth — a person who can manage diaries, coordinate travel and simply be present in a natural, professional way.

What the Role Typically Involves

A travelling PA/Companion usually provides:

• Day-to-day companionship and lifestyle support
• Assistance with emails, correspondence and light administration
• Coordination of appointments and diary management
• Organisation of transport and travel logistics
• Accompanying the principal on journeys and at social engagements
• Flexible, responsive support across multiple locations

In many cases the role involves regular travel between homes or international destinations and requires a current driving licence. Working hours are often in the region of 50 hours per week with the flexibility that private households demand.

The Ideal Candidate Profile

Success in this position depends less on formal qualifications and more on personal qualities. Clients typically look for someone who is:

• Personable and emotionally intelligent
• Highly organised and reliable
• Naturally discreet and professional
• Comfortable building a long-term, trusted relationship
• Adaptable to changing locations and routines

The ability to offer both practical assistance and easy companionship is essential. This is not a care role; it is a lifestyle support position for someone who remains independent but values consistent, high-calibre company.

Benefits for Discerning Households

For principals and their families, a well-matched travelling companion provides continuity, reduces logistical friction and offers peace of mind. It allows the principal to maintain an active social and travel life while ensuring that day-to-day organisation is handled smoothly and privately. When the right person is found, the arrangement often becomes a long-term professional relationship rather than a short-term placement.

Finding the Right Fit

Because the role combines administrative skill with interpersonal sensitivity, careful matching is critical. Specialist agencies such as Marshall Harber are well placed to identify candidates who understand the nuances of private household work and can operate with the required level of discretion and flexibility. Thorough assessment and vetting remains the most reliable way to evaluate both practical competence and personal suitability.
As demand for this type of support continues to grow, households that invest in the right travelling companion often find it transforms daily life for the better. If you are considering this kind of role — either as a principal or as a candidate — we would be happy to discuss the opportunities currently available.