Are you interested in running your own care or help at home enterprise in Peasedown St John, Midsomer Norton or the local community?

An exciting initiative is now up and running across Bath & North East Somerset which will support local people to set up offering creative and flexible care and support to their older and disabled neighbours. The scheme can help locals with all they need to set up as self-employed or as a small community enterprise, offering help at home or activities and support in the community.

Community Catalyst B&NES is running a pop up clinic at The Hive, Peasedown St John on Tuesday, 27th February between 9am and 12noon, and Midsomer Norton Library on Friday, 1st March between 10am and 12noon, to offer free advice to people who want to make a difference in their community.

Enterprising locals have already come forward with lots of creative ideas for new support options – from dance and exercise classes for older people, to simple support with getting washed and dressed or cooking a favourite meal at home. Community enterprises might offer anything from cleaning, cooking, companionship, inclusive classes or activities, DIY, trips out and more.

The project is being run by social enterprise Community Catalysts and funded by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Michael Auton, who is leading the project in B&NES said, “For over twelve years Community Catalysts has supported lots of people across the UK to get set up offering creative and flexible care and support options.

“Now we are looking for passionate people in B&NES who want to help their community, work flexibly, choose their own hours, set a fair rate of pay and run a quality service.

“You don’t need to have a professional background in care or know how to run a business– but you do need to know what good care looks like.”

If you have an idea for your own care or help at home service, or just want to know more about Community Catalyst, come and meet Michael at the Hive, Bath Road, Peasedown St John, BA2 8DH on Tuesday 27th February (9am and 12noon), or Midsomer Norton Library on Friday 1st March (10am and 12noon), and see what free support he can offer you.

If you are interested in finding out more you can contact Michael Auton, BANES Community Catalyst on 07443 191851 or email [email protected].

You can also follow the project on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CommCatsBANES