Beanstalk Business Support CIC has been a personal dream of mine for many years, and I am incredibly proud (and humbled) that it has finally come true. Every event and experience in my life has led me to Beanstalk.

As a teenage mum, I faced many challenges. At 16 years old, I was still in school when my son was born. This left me without qualifications or skills for employment, and I relied on state benefits while living in social housing. Being a vulnerable lone parent without family support led to a range of mental health issues, including intense social isolation and loneliness. As my mental health deteriorated, it became increasingly difficult to envision a better future for myself and my son.

However, a turning point came when I came across a project for young mums that offered a work placement programme and access to college education. Not only did I have the opportunity to gain an education and work experience, but they also funded a nursery place for my son. I was assigned a job coach named Joyce Boreham, and with her support, encouragement, and empathy, I completed the work placement programme, obtained a business administration qualification, and developed the skills and confidence necessary for permanent employment and a meaningful career.

This experience changed my life and paved a new path for me. Without the support from Joyce, I may not have reached where I am today. I have dedicated my life to being that person for others, empowering them to improve their life chances. With over 25 years of professional experience supporting people towards employment, overseeing work placements, apprenticeships, and funded projects for Myerscough College, Preston Vocational Centre, and Community Gateway Association, I am committed to breaking down barriers to employment one step at a time. Beanstalk is my way of providing projects that offer wrap-around pastoral support, work experience, understanding, and encouragement.

Having experienced the transformative power of support myself, I am thankful every day for the opportunity that was given to me. If it weren’t for the support of my job coach, Joyce, and access to the project, I’m not sure where my son and I would be today. The impact of these projects is immeasurable, as they help change the lives of so many people for the better. Beanstalk is dedicated to making a difference to as many people as possible, just as my job coach did for me. I dedicate Beanstalk to Joyce with love and thanks.