I got in touch with the National Careers Service because I wanted help getting back into work. Being over the age of 50, I felt it was harder for me to find work and needed all the support I could get. I’m also a single parent to four children, and getting back into work presented some real challenges, but I was determined to do it.
“I wanted to become a self-employed dog walker, but wasn’t sure how to get started”
My adviser was really helpful. We spoke a number of times – both face to face and over the phone. I wanted to become a self-employed dog walker, but wasn’t sure how to get started. So he gave me some really useful advice. We wrote an action plan together so that I could work out what my next steps should be, and he recommended a course called ‘Pop Up Business’. It was a free of charge, week long course which he felt could give me some food for thought.
“I’m so glad I took that first step”
The course was so helpful – absolutely brilliant in fact, and better than any training I had received throughout my whole career. And I’d worked for some large organisations including Marks and Spencer and the National Trust!
I know exactly what I want to achieve now, but it’s going to take time. The business course has taught me everything I needed to know about starting my own business. My goal is now to start earning enough from my business to pay tax! Being a working single parent to four children is tough, but I really enjoy working and meeting new people. Therefore I’m so glad I took that first step. Support is out there, and anyone in the same position as I was should take advantage of it.
The National Careers Service provides free careers information, advice and guidance on careers to anyone aged 13 and upwards.
To speak to a National Careers Service adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our webchat (8am to 10pm, 7 days a week)
