Stephen's Story

After facing sudden unemployment, Stephen set up his own successful business.

Stephen, 50, had worked servicing surveying equipment for many years. One day, he was told that his depot was closing.

He said: “It was a complete bombshell. I went into panic mode. I thought, what am I going to do?”

The type of specialist equipment Stephen works with is serviced by very few companies. There were no similar service centres locally.

Seeking advice

Stephen searched online and found Careers Wales. He then booked an appointment with a Working Wales careers adviser, Catrin.

He wanted to know if his skills could transfer into another role. But he also had another idea in mind.

Stephen explained: “I said to Catrin I’d love to have a go on my own. There’s no one locally doing what I do.”

During their sessions, Stephen showed Catrin the specialist equipment he services and explained his manufacturer training. Catrin suggested he speak to Business Wales about starting his own company. From there, things moved quickly.

Taking the next step

Stephen applied for ReAct+ funding to complete updated manufacturer training on new equipment. ReAct+ funding supports people affected by redundancy to gain new skills and qualifications.

Catrin helped with the application and spoke directly with the training provider.

Stephen also received advice about tax, accounts and running a business. He decided to work with an accountant so he could focus on his technical work.

He said: “It was frightening at first. I’ve never worked for myself before.”

He added: “I went in feeling like, ‘Oh my God, I’m 50 and out of work,’ to completely motivated and ready to run with it.”

Building a successful business

Stephen set up his company, Cardiff Laser and Survey Solutions Limited.

He contacted previous customers to let them know he was starting out on his own. The response was immediate.

The business has grown rapidly in its first months and is already thriving.

He said: “It’s been a very busy seven months.”

Advice for others

Stephen encourages anyone facing redundancy to seek support: “I’d say 100% go and have a chat. It can feel daunting, but it’s worth doing.”

He added: “They point you in the right direction and hold your hand through it. That’s what they did for me.”

Stephen is now running his own successful business and looking ahead with confidence.

If you've been inspired by Stephen's story, you can book a free career review to help you make a career change.

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