Partner Article

Caring pair lead the way in training

A Tyneside couple who started a business training people in the care sector is thriving, thanks to support a local enterprise programme. Northern Care Training Ltd is managed by husband and wife team Amanda and Ian Dickinson, and aims to improve standards within the care sector by providing training and assessment in NVQ Health and Social Care.

Operations director Ian, said: “We were always confident that the business would grow and the plans initially were to have a team of trainers and basic skills tutors in addition to NVQ assessors. We are delighted this is now becoming a reality; we have grown from two staff to now employing 15.

“Amanda used her background in learning disability nursing and NVQ assessment and I used my experience in sales, marketing and accounting so we have a good combination of managerial skills within the business. We used this knowledge, together with support and funding, to grow the business to what it is today.”

Ian and Angela received a £10,000 grant as well as a £5,000 micro loan through the Financing Business Growth package of the South Tyneside Means Business programme. This enabled them to employ a manager and accelerate the expansion plans they had for the business, based at The Quadrus Centre in Boldon.

Amanda added: “At the very start, I took out a personal loan to fund my salary and fund some resources and office equipment. I also received a £1,000 grant which went towards other essential office appliances.”

Ian offered advice to those thinking of starting their own business: “Appreciate that you are not alone, there are a number of companies and organisations that can offer your business the support and advice you need and don’t be afraid to seek that help. “Also be prepared to work long hours initially but ensure you do not get too involved ‘in’ the business but make sure you work ‘on’ the business.”

For more information about Northern Care Training visit their website at www.northerncaretraining.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .