Barbara’s Journey to Better Work and a Brighter Future

Barbara’s world revolves around her young son, who has developmental delays.  A dedicated single mother living in a remote rural area in the Highlands, Barbara approached Enable Works as the small jewellery business she was running wasn’t making enough money to support her family, financially.  

After meeting with her Employment Coordinator, Barbara shared that her goal was to increase her household income to provide financial security for her and her son. After completing benefits check to ensure that Barbara was receiving all financial support available, the next step was to work with Enable Works to create a plan to help Barbara reach her full potential.  

As a parent of a son with disabilities, Barbara felt self-employment was the most suitable option for her personal circumstances.  Her ambition was to transform the croft where she lives into a thriving smallholding. She envisioned restoring the barn to create space to continue to her jewellery business as well as expanding into the production of homemade sauerkraut and other health-conscious goods.  

With support from Enable Works, Barbara started to build her confidence and create a clear plan to achieve her goals. She was supported to expand her network, joining initiatives such as Impact 30 and the Farm Advisory service. Barbara was also assisted by Enable Works to explore funding opportunities to support the purchase of training and equipment needed to start her new business venture. She was able to purchase a laptop and Starlink broadband, essential to the success of her business given its rural location.  

Barbara also received funding for two Agrifood CPD modules at Aberystwyth University, with the Highland Council Employability Service, covering £2,000 in tuition fees for Food Innovation and Horticulture Science. In addition, she was awarded funding through LaunchPad to support her business startup costs. 

Barbara successfully re-submitted a funding application to the Crofting Commission to renovate her barn, with the support of Enable Works. This was an essential step for scaling up production of sauerkraut and other food products. 

Beyond support to access funding, Barbara has made significant progress in formalising her business. She has an established website and is now registered with Food Standards and is actively engaging with key organisations to further develop her business and network.  

Barbara is now a familiar face at craft and farmers markets across the Highlands, regularly showcasing her products at Raise Up North, Lairg Market, Kinlochbervie, and Ullapool Market. She has also been invited to participate in upcoming events at Dingwall Mart and further Raise Up North gatherings this year.  

With support from Enable Works, Barbara has now brought her dreams of expanding her business to life and is thriving, with an increased income and the tools she needs to succeed, long term.  

Reflecting on her journey, Barbara said

“Enable Works has given me access to training and support to help me raise myself out of marginal circumstances to improve my prospects and aspirations. I couldn’t have done it without their support.”