Help to set up offering care and support as a community micro-enterprise
This project is run by Community Catalysts who are helping local people to develop "community micro-enterprises" which are able to offer care and help at home to older and disabled people. The project also supports existing enterprises and businesses interested in offering more care and support options.
As part of the project, Community Catalysts has developed a directory to showcase community micro-enterprises in the local area.
We first commissioned the project in 2018 and in 2022 the project was extended for a further three years, widening the reach across the North and South to cover the entire county.
What is a community micro-enterprise (small business)?
A community micro-enterprise (or CME) is a small enterprise or venture offering flexible and person-centred services or support. Local people help other local people and anybody can start one.
Community micro-enterprises can offer a range of different services and supports to people in their area. This can include
- help at home and homecare
- day and evening activities
- help to stay connected
- leisure activities
- training and employment
As well as helping people to set up a new enterprise, Community Catalysts will also advise small groups and organisations already established in Central Bedfordshire and looking to diversify or extend what they offer to support adults with care and support needs in the area.
View this view to understand how Community Catalysts can help.
Do you have an idea that could help older people and people with disabilities at home?
Do you need help to turn your idea into an enterprise or small community venture?
Are you already helping people and would like to do more?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, running a community micro-enterprise might be for you. Community Catalysts can:
- offer you a friendly and supportive point of contact to explore ideas
- support you to develop your community enterprise
- give you practical information on regulation, training and opportunities in the health and social care sector
- direct you to other organisations who can help.
I have always had an entrepreneurial drive to work for myself and as my children got older and all went to school, I was looking to do something based in the community that enabled me to help people in my local area. I approached the career advisor in Biggleswade and as part of the meeting was told about Community Catalysts and after a few meetings with the local coordinator, and before I knew it, I had my own business working hours that fit around my family life and, most importantly, supporting people in my local community.
Kelly Slater, Together – CME
Get in touch
If you wish to discuss setting up offering care and support or learn more about the project please leave your details and Community Catalysts will be in touch. You can leave your details at https://bit.ly/3fC3UzI or you can email centralbedsmicros@communitycatalysts.co.uk
To find out more about Community Catalysts visit www.communitycatalysts.co.uk