Lindsay's in business thanks to L&H Homes

Published by keeley for Longhurst Group in Communities and also in Education

The L&H Homes’ Just Rewards scheme has made all the difference for Lindsay Swain. Thanks to an Education and Training grant she was able to start up ‘Cotton Tails Childcare’, her own child minding business, from her home in Lincoln.

“I heard about the Education and Training grant from a Neighbourhood Officer. I’d already gotten permission from L&H Homes to run a child care business from home but I was struggling to pay for the last few things I needed. My Neighbourhood Officer then put me in touch with the Community Involvement Officer who manages the grant funding and works with applicants to help them get the support they need.

“I wanted to use the grant to help me buy a book I needed to complete one of my courses, pay for a course that was required before I could set the business up and use the rest to buy equipment that would help children learn and develop – I didn’t have anything at the time so it was really important to get the basic essentials so I could provide a stimulating environment for children.”

Lindsay has always been interested in care having previously worked with older people in care homes and as a one to one carer so stepping into child-minding felt like a natural step for her to take when she had her son.

“I really enjoy working with children and being able to play a big part in their development as well. It makes it a very rewarding job. Now that I’m working from home, I also get to spend time with my son before he goes to school and financially, I’m better off too as I am saving on childcare and travel costs.

“It took a lot of work to set up ‘Cotton Tails Childcare’ – I had to get up to date on all the legislation surrounding childcare and health and safety so I needed to attend a lot of different courses and joined the National Child Minding Association (NCMA) which provides briefings about the law and OFSTED.

“Once the business was up and running and I was trying to get more customers, the educational toys I bought with the grant really helped. They make a great first impression when people visit and it also means you’re prepared if you have a child joining who has a specific learning need.

“The grant has helped me achieve so much! I’ve developed many business skills and l gained so much confidence and independence during the process. It was a steep learning curve but as a result I have a job and career I absolutely love!”