Benefits of Return to Work schemes: Clare was put in touch with the CREA (Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency) Return to Work scheme via the Job Centre in Penrith. She had already thought about turning her pottery hobby into a small business and Angela Staples, the Project Officer at the time, recommended a business start-up course as a first step towards making that happen.
“I enjoy pottery as it feels creative and constructive as well as being relaxing. I was wary that turning it into my job would change that but I’ve learnt to be flexible and to manage the business side of it so that it doesn’t become stressful. The big advantage is that I can fit it around my family and around my illness. CREA has given me the professional advice and support to help me realise my aspirations and rebuild my life.”
Current status: Clare launched Pinfold Pottery at the beginning of 2009 and has attended a couple of fairs and events such as Potfest in the Pens with her work. She also sells her planters, plant markers and garden sculptures through Made in Cumbria outlets and local garden and flower shops.
“The planters and plant markers are my bestsellers and I am gradually extending the network of retailers that stock them. These are the baseline income for the business and their success is enabling me to experiment with other things like different animals for garden sculptures and human figures.”
Future plans and hopes: Through CREA, Clare has had tailor-made computing training to help with management of the business and she is now working with Liz Hayhurst (Return to Work officer) on sourcing simple accountancy and book-keeping training.
“It would be too easy for the business aspects of self-employment to take over and to become stressful in their own right. Having the advice and support on training from CREA has been a huge help as I can take things a step at a time and build up my confidence. There is a common misconception that people who have disabilities or who are looking for work have all the time in the world. In reality, my time is very precious and I prioritise the day carefully. Time invested with CREA has been important and worthwhile.”
CREA is also responsible for delivering a programme called Intensive Start-Up Support, one of the Solutions for Business that are funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency. This support is available to anyone in Eden and South Lakes who wants to find out more about what would be involved in starting their own business.
“I’ve been impressed with how Clare has tackled her illness and found practical ways to create and then grow her ceramics business. Self-employment isn’t for everyone but it can offer the flexibility that someone in Clare’s position needs. CREA has years of experience helping business start-ups and Clare is one of several people on the Return to Work programme who have explored this approach to work.”
Liz Hayhurst, Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency.
Contact Liz Hayhurst at Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency (CREA) Kendal office on 015397 26624 for further information on the Return to Work scheme and local opportunities for support and training.
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