Business start-up – Susan’s story

When Susan joined the Restart Scheme - delivered in Middlesbrough by Triage - she was eager to explore her self-employment opportunities, as she had previous DJ and yoga teaching experience across Europe. Susan wanted to further develop her skills and experience to start a new business specialising in yoga, meditation, reiki, and DJ work.

During her initial appointment, Susan met with Employment Adviser, Stephanie, who identified the areas Susan needed support with most in setting up her own business. “When I met Susan, I was impressed by her ambition to start her own business,” said Stephanie. “We explored her business ideas together and developed a plan that she could work towards. We identified considerable marketing opportunities and researched what methods could be used to reach customers remotely.”

Our self-employment team are on hand to support participants in developing their skills and gaining the qualifications needed to succeed in their future business. The Restart Scheme offers a range of free courses, including Accredited Training and sector specific courses to help them participants along the way.

After the successful launch of her business, Susan continues to receive in-work support from Triage, who have assisted her with her with training during this start up period. Susan was considered by the Jobcentre Plus as successfully self-employed and was given a start-up period to concentrate on her business and grow her sales.

Stephanie told us: “Susan is such an inspiring participant of the Restart Scheme and since she started her business, we have continued to meet on a regular basis to concentrate on her business development and growth activities.”

We wish Susan the best of luck in her new self-employment career!