As a youngster Donna Anderson, 46 from Stockton worked on market stalls within Stockton and dreamt that one day she would own her own children’s clothing outlet
It remained her wish during the course of her life but the opportunity never presented itself as she worked very hard raising and providing for her family, overcoming illness and working within retail, catering and cleaning sectors.
Donna was so determined she even had the name of her business chosen ‘Dainty Dudes and Divas’ but she did not know how to make her dream a reality, as the years went by it felt like it was an impossible dream.
Recently Donna was made redundant, which gave her the opportunity to consider her long term dream. She had heard of Five Lamps and made a general enquiry and worked with Jane Simpson, Family Coach at Five Lamps to create an action plan to help turn her dream into a reality.
Jane informed Donna of the New Enterprise Allowance Loan Service which enables unemployed people to progress to self-employment, whilst receiving support over the course of the first six months of their business. Jane also referred Donna to Five Lamps enterprise team who provided enterprise coaching and practical support on self-employment, including developing a business plan.
Donna attended all the necessary training, completed an in depth business plan, and secured funding from the New Enterprise Allowance.
Jane continued to provide support to Donna including helping her get registered on ‘Free Index’ a business directory website. When Donna witnessed her business Dainty Dudes and Divas on the directory she believed it was happening.
Donna’s dream was becoming a reality. She secured a Unit at Inshops Thornaby and opened her business at the end of August 2013.
She has her shops billboard Dainty Dudes and Divas and finally after all these years of hard work and personal difficulties Donna has achieved her dream.
Donna is very grateful for all the support and encouragement she has received and expressed her thanks.
“My dream would never have happened without Five Lamps support”
FamilyWise is funded from the European Social Fund Support for Families with Multiple Problems contract.
If you require further information on the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) scheme then speak to your local Job Centre Adviser.
The NEA contract is delivered by Five Lamps. Funding was also secured from the European Union, ERDF fund.