Ever fancied working for yourself while making a real difference here in Chippenham or across wider Wiltshire? This could be the perfect opportunity.
Community Catalysts are working in partnership with Wiltshire Council on a project aimed at helping local people to become self-employed and support older or disabled residents in their own homes or to run activities or groups in the community. Helping local people help other local people.
The initiative, funded by Wiltshire Council, provides access to a free development programme to help you get started which includes training, marketing support, signposting and funding opportunities, with a chance to connect with others doing similar work.
It’s not just about traditional care – it’s about any service or activity that helps people stay connected and independent. This could include helping people with:
- Getting out and about
- Companionship
- Running errands or doing odd jobs
- Organising daily tasks
…or setting up and running
- Fitness classes
- Creative sessions
- Social groups
Why it might suit you:
- Be your own boss
- Choose the hours you work
- Work locally
- Do something you enjoy that makes a difference
Cllr Gordon King, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said:
“Caring for adults can mean many things – from preventing loneliness and helping with organisation or simply being there.
This is a fantastic opportunity to start your own micro-enterprise with free support to get you up and running. You don’t need previous business or care experience – just a passion for helping others and a good understanding of what great care looks like.”
Fabrizio Donati, Programme Manager at Community Catalysts said:
“We believe the best care and support often comes from people who know their communities well and want to make a difference close to home. This work in Wiltshire is about helping local people use their talents to build something small, personal, and powerful.”
Helen Sowerby who set up a Community Catalyst venture in a separate area to Wiltshire explained how the support made a difference:
“If it wasn’t for Community Catalysts, I’m not sure I’d have had the confidence to make a go of it. The local catalyst guided me through every process, helped me when I hit a wall, and continues to be my cheerleader. I’ve grown as a person and a provider because of this service.”
Got an idea? However small it seems, it could make a big impact. Email Lucy at lucy.steel@communitycatalysts.co.uk to arrange a chat.
Visit website: www.communitycatalysts.co.uk
Follow Wiltshire Community Catalyst on Facebook: CommsCatsWiltshire
