S is a 36 year old graduate and qualified photographer. After giving birth to her first child she suffered bad post natal depression which was brought on, she believes, by her childhood memories of domestic violence. This reawakening of bad memories from her childhood plunged her into a depression and led her into contact with what she herself terms ‘a bad crowd.’ This led to drug abuse and her first brush with the law. She was convicted of assault, theft and driving without insurance for which she received community sentences and fines.

S’s first step to taking control of her life was prompted by her probation officer’s referral to Working Chance. She received further referrals to other organisations such as Women in Prison and Clean Break. Working Chance, believing that S might be a good candidate for self employment, referred her to Startup.

She was introduced to a Startup Business Adviser and put together a business plan to become a self employed photographer. S successfully presented her business idea at a StartupNow Day.

With the support of Startup, S researched and chose a digital camera and the other equipment necessary. In addition she went on to study a makeup course so that she could offer ‘makeover’ photo shoots. Startup provided her with a computer with Photoshop so that she could develop her own photographs.

With Startup’s support S has also received help from a professional design company to design her flyers and business cards and has developed a website.

‘I am already getting referrals for photo shoots. It’s quite nerve-racking launching a business but very, very exciting at the same time. I feel really positive about the future but it is nice to know that Startup is on hand to help out in the early days. I’ve got my mentor now and know that I can go to her with any problems.’