Blackpool woman's business is the write stuff

Being on notice of redundancy in her role in the council made Viv from Anchorsholme realise that she had to make some big decisions about her future.

She said: “The impending changes to my job situation really made me think. At first I struggled for ideas about what to do next and a little panic crept in.

“It was very worrying. Then it dawned on me that this was my opportunity to do the one thing that I really love through my own business.”

Viv had worked in Leeds for a publishing company as a technical author and editor.

She had also spent an exciting time in Spain, originally selling property but swapping to a role with an English language magazine called The Guide and a newspaper, the Costa Almeria News.

She added: “I have a long-held passion for the English language. I have always enjoyed jobs that involve writing, editing or proof-reading. I feel very comfortable doing it and there’s nothing more satisfying for me than seeing a finished piece of work that reads well.”

Viv was encouraged by her husband to look at launching her own business. He had already started working for himself the year before with support from the council’s Get Started team.

She decided it was now or never to start working freelance and offer proofreading and editing to all sorts of people from students and charity teams through to busy professionals and businesses.

The Get Started team provided a range of advice on matters such as creating and developing a business plan, pricing and how to find and target customers.

Coun Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Enterprise and Economic Development, said: “It is wonderful to see someone have the opportunity to work in the field that they love. I am delighted that the Get Started team were able to advise Viv and help realise her dream.”