"Support in starting a business"

I had asked to be referred to the service as I required support with employment. I didn’t know what to expect from the service initially but anticipated someone who could help and support me in starting my own business. My initial appointment changed that as I felt listened to and was offered the support I required. I didn’t really feel comfortable around men (due to my own personal negative experiences), but it was very helpful that it was in a public space.

Although my Employment Specialist (Rayhaan) and I only did limited job searching, we found a relevant and helpful website for me to start tutoring on. I received a number of students from there. Rayhaan had also put me in touch with the right people to start my business. I now know how to use Instagram! I had attended webinars on how to start up a business, which is now thriving! He had also got relevant information from accountants for me to have the right information regarding taxes and a contact, should I require them in the future. I felt supported throughout the process of starting a business and knowing my ES was there, just in case I did have any questions.

There were no barriers from the ES side of me attending appointments, although I personally forgot sometimes. I do sometimes feel like I have imposter syndrome having achieved my employment goal, but I am very happy that I have go there.

My C/Co Dannie was very helpful in my recovery, she built rapport with me over a period of time. She made our appointments feel informal so I could easily open up to her rather than it feeling like a client/patient dynamic. She then referred me on to the employment service, never doubting my abilities. Both Dannie and Rayhaan then made me feel valued. In my journey, I wouldn’t improve anything. I would advise anyone starting a business and wanting to use the employment service to never doubt yourself and just go for it!