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- How I Work - 
Personal Support for Navigating Life in France

Elizabeth Ford, English-speaking expat support specialist in France

Liz Ford - Your Handholder in France

Moving to France is exciting, but the reality of French paperwork, administration, and cultural differences can feel overwhelming. My role is to make that journey calmer, clearer, and far less stressful.
 

I offer warm, personal hand‑holding services for individuals and families who want reliable, English‑speaking support with the practical side of settling into French life. Whether you’re moving to France, already here, or facing a specific administrative challenges, I guide you step by step, so you always know what to do next.

What I do

My work centres on helping you understand and complete the tasks that matter, including:
 

  • Help with French paperwork (forms, letters, official requests)

  • Administrative assistance with prefectures, CPAM, tax offices, utilities, banks, and schools

  •  Expat support for settling into daily life

  •  Guidance for moving to France and preparing the essentials

  • Translation and explanation of documents, emails, and procedures

  • Accompaniment to appointments when you need someone by your side

  • Clear, patient explanations of how French systems work

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Think of me as your calm, knowledgeable companion through the parts of French life that can feel confusing or unfamiliar.

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View my Services page for more details

A French mairie building representing local administration and official services
A man and woman discussing French paperwork together at a table

Examples of how I can help

  • Applying for residency or renewing a visa/Titre de sejour

  • Registering with CPAM and understanding French healthcare

  • Setting up utilities, internet, and mobile contracts

  • Opening or managing a bank account

  • Completing tax registrations and declarations

  • Exchanging a driving licence

  • Understanding letters from French authorities

  • Preparing for a move to France

  • School and childcare administration

  • Buying or renting a home

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If it involves French paperwork, communication, or organisation, I can help.

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View my Services page for more details

What My Clients Say

I’ve supported many individuals and families as they navigate French life, paperwork, and administration.

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"We spoke to a number of ‘hand-holders’ before contacting Liz to help us navigate our relocation from the UK to France. We immediately felt confident working with her and our experience has been fully justified.  She provides a personal and efficient service with a calm manner and is a constant source of information and reassurance"


Malcolm and Carol, Royan, France

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Read all my reviews and testimonials here

A family taking a selfie while skiing in the French Alps
A narrow cobbled street in a traditional French village

How we work together

  1. We start with a conversation. You tell me what you’re facing, what you need, and what worries you.
     

  2. I create a clear plan
     

  3. You receive a simple, step‑by‑step outline of what needs to be done.
     

  4. We work through it together
     

  5. I guide you through each step, helping you complete tasks correctly and confidently.
     

  6. You get ongoing support
     

  7. I stay with you until everything is resolved — no loose ends, no unanswered questions

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Get in touch with Liz

Frequently Asked Questions

"Do I need to live near you?"

No. I support clients across all of France and anywhere in the world actually, both remotely and in person when possible.

 

"Can you help with French paperwork?"

Yes — from healthcare to taxes to residency, I provide clear, practical help.

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"Is this the same as relocation services?"

My service is actually more personal than that. I focus on you, not just the logistics.

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"Can you accompany me to appointments?"

Yes, when needed and when distance allows.

 

"Is this suitable for families?"

Absolutely. Many families use my support for schools, healthcare, and settling in.

Get in Touch

If you’d like support navigating French life, or simply want to understand your options, I’d be happy to talk. Please get in touch.

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