1 minute read
The dating business winning hearts
by Playford
In the age of catfishing and The Tinder Swindler, you can never be too careful when it comes to matters of the heart.
Safe online dating is what Cheryl Drury (pictured) teaches in her DATE-ABILITY program, helping people on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) find the necessary skills to build meaningful relationships.
“I come from a finance background and I noticed there’s little out there for people with a disability to learn how to manage their own money well,” Cheryl said.
When meeting with clients on budgeting and spending habits, Cheryl saw a similar pattern in their stories emerge. An alarming number had been victim to cruel online dating scams, losing lump savings and retreating into social isolation to cope.
A mix of sexologists and psychologists help to explain what a “real” relationship looked like and the classic signs of financial abuse.
“We work to change their beliefs that they need to pay for friends, but also delve deeper into consent, selfawareness and how a healthy relationship should look and feel for both members,” she said.
Cheryl started First Step Solutions “right as COVID hit” two years ago, with a humble set up in her lounge room. While thinking about moving into a bigger space, Cheryl discovered the Stretton Centre when she attended a networking event. The then two-staffstrong business owner decided it was the perfect place for her and First Step to grow.
“When I saw it, I was sold,” she said. “It had everything I needed. I love having other NDIS providers here at the Stretton Centre – it’s a great way to connect to other businesses and share experiences.”
Flash forward to now and Cheryl has 30 staff spread across Australia, with her services available in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Queensland. The Stretton Centre, which offers state-of-theart workspaces for just $10 a day, has a record of fast-tracking local start-ups. It provides premium spaces and complimentary business support from business experts.
One-week free trials are available for workspaces at the Stretton Centre – a bespoke coworking office environment in the heart of Munno Para.
Learn more and enquire about a co-working space,
visit strettoncentre.com.au
