Transforming Lives Through Entrepreneurship
Transforming Lives Through Entrepreneurship
We’ve proud to say we’ve supported nearly 10,000 people so far this year with their self employment dreams!
People like Klaudia whose story you can read further down this article.
We know that entrepreneurship has the power to change lives not only for individuals but for society as whole. We’re proud to say that we support people from a diverse range of backgrounds – including the unemployed, many of whom are far removed from the jobs market, ex-prisoners, and young people. These groups often face challenges and barriers to employment, but with the right support, they can turn their ideas, and dreams, into reality by becoming self-employed.
The Unemployed
For those who have experienced long-term unemployment, the journey back to work can be tough. However, through our support, many people have discovered that starting their own business is not only a way to earn an income but also a path to self-empowerment and renewed confidence. This personal success also has a broader impact in that the businesses they’ve created are providing new services, jobs, and economic activity in their communities.
Supporting Ex-Prisoners
Reoffending costs the economy somewhere in the region of £11 billion*. With one of the main factors for re-offending being limited employment opportunities, we’ve seen how entrepreneurship offers a powerful way to rebuild lives and create positive futures whilst also having a significant impact communities they live in.
Empowering Young People
With 16% of people under 25 in the UK being self-employed ** we believe it is essential to offer guidance and support to up and coming generations. Young people often have big ideas but sometimes lack the resources or experience to bring them to life. We’ve had the pleasure of helping young people take their first steps into the world of entrepreneurship, and the results have been inspiring.
Here's a story from just one of the 10,000 people we've supported so far this year.
Sweet Ambitions: How Klaudia Found Success with Fair Start Scotland at PeoplePlus
Klaudia, a talented baker with a passion for creating exquisite cakes and pastries, has taken her business to new heights with the support of PeoplePlus. English may be her second language, but that didn't stop Klaudia from pursuing her dream of turning her love for baking into a thriving business.
With the guidance of Business Advisor, Ian, from PeoplePlus Scotland, Klaudia embarked on her entrepreneurial journey. Ian worked closely with her to craft a comprehensive business plan that outlined every step of her path to success. Together, they developed a detailed cash flow strategy, ensuring that her dream was not only creative but also financially sustainable. This strategic planning gave Klaudia the confidence to move forward, knowing that her business was built on a solid foundation.
But the support didn’t stop there. Ian provided Klaudia with invaluable assistance in marketing, helping her to create a brand that truly reflects the artistry and quality of her baked goods, they worked together to ensure that Plum & Pastry stood out in a competitive market. Klaudia learned how to effectively reach her target audience, showcasing her creations in a way that captured the essence of her passion.
Navigating the complexities of HMRC regulations and grant applications can be daunting for any new business owner, but Klaudia tackled these challenges head-on with Ian's support. He guided her through the intricacies of tax compliance and funding opportunities, making sure she was well-prepared to manage the financial aspects of her business. This comprehensive support allowed Klaudia to focus on what she does best—creating beautiful and delicious baked goods.
Klaudia's hard work and determination paid off, as she made the significant leap from working at home to opening her very own premises in Glasgow. This transition marked a major milestone in her journey, transforming her passion into a full-fledged business.
Today, Klaudia's business, Plum & Pastry, is known for its stunning occasional cakes, patisserie, and sweet tables. Klaudia’s creations are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds.
With her determination and the support of PeoplePlus, Klaudia has turned her passion into a successful business, bringing sweetness to Glasgow one cake at a time.
*Figures correct as of June 2024. Start-Up West Yorkshire – 499, West Yorkshire schools (Be the Boss) – 7945, Restart in England and Wales - 362,Fair Start Scotland, Working for You and Working for Families – 157, Prisons - 110
** centreformentalhealth.org.uk
*** Office for National Statistics