“Let your power shine” – Ebony’s story

Ebony was referred to the Restart Scheme by Jobcentre Plus, for employment support in fulfilling her dream job as a self-employed children’s entertainer. With a goal in mind this was expressed to her Employment Adviser, Gail, who was fully supportive and was able to assist with the process of becoming self-employed.

Gail and Ebony discussed the process of getting Ebony’s business off the ground and all the requirements of being self-employed such as tax returns, invoicing, record keeping and reporting to Jobcentre Plus. Gail was able to assist Ebony with ordering business cards, created to promote her business, and discuss how to effectively use social media as a platform to showcase what she has to offer.

The Restart Scheme offers specialised Self-Employment Support sessions, which Ebony attended to hone her business plan, which she focused on children’s princess parties. Gail was there at every step of the way to support and provide guidance with completing tax returns and talking her through how to keep detailed records of finances.

Gail shared with us: “With the support from the Restart Scheme, Ebony has been able to successful set up her business and has secured bookings in both 2022 and 2023. She is hosting three Christmas events in the local area due to demand for her services and has even employed two staff to support.”

We caught up with Ebony, and she told us: “The Restart Scheme has supported me on my journey of starting my own business. Gail, my Employment Adviser, has been incredible with supporting me where needed and given new ideas to grow and develop my business. She was extremely supportive and kind which made me very comfortable whilst going through this process which, at times, can be very overwhelming.

“I think what most benefited me was knowing I had someone to speak to on a regular basis, who had the resources and knowledge to advise me on the next steps to take. I can’t thank Gail enough for her support and having someone just as excited about my business as I was, gave me a huge confidence boost and helped me believe I can be a successful business owner!”