Charity helps man with brain injury set up own business

Matt from Swadlincote wanted to set up a gardening business but was facing major challenges with an inability to read or write due to a brain injury, as well as low confidence. Thanks to local charity Groundwork Five Counties, his business dream has now come true.

Matt first met Claire from Groundwork after he was signposted by a local support service who couldn’t help him. Claire is an Employment Coach for Beyond Barriers, a free charity employability service for South Derbyshire adults that want to find a job, gain new skills, or set up their own business.

Matt says: “I didn’t know where to start and was so nervous that a friend came with me to my first meetings with Claire. But she was kind, helpful, and quickly boosted my confidence.

“My biggest challenge is that I struggle with reading and writing due to a brain injury. Claire helped me with forms, setting up my business Facebook page, and found ways I could manage things on my own. She also made notes for my family, who have been very supportive too.”

“To get self-employment advice, Claire arranged a meeting with the South Derbyshire Business Advice Service. I had no idea of all the legal things that come with it! Now my business Tree Toppers Garden Service has all the right paperwork, and I’ve started working for customers.”

Matt knew that he needed a towbar for a trailer to carry his garden tools and waste, but he couldn’t afford it. Claire provided him with funding to purchase one, as well as a new mobile phone so he can take work calls and manage his own diary.

Matt says: “Claire helped me from beginning to end, from improving my self-esteem to getting my business set up and running and buying those important things. Without her, I could not have done this, and I am so grateful.”

Beyond Barriers is a partnership by the Groundwork charity with South Derbyshire District Council, who have provided a grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). South Derbyshire residents between the ages of 18 – 66 can get free support to find paid or voluntary work, get into education, gain new skills, or set up their own business like Matt did.

To find out more and sign up for this free service, visit: www.groundwork.org.uk/fivecounties/beyond-barriers