Single Mums Business Magazine Summer 2024

ISSN 2752-9517 (online)

SUMMER ISSUE 2024

INSPIRATION

£4.90

INFORMATION DETERMINATION

The King's Speech 2024 Employment Rights Bill Children’s Wellbeing Bill Renters’ Rights Bill

Ethical Franchising & where contract law has gone wrong

#workingwithcancer pledge

Exploitative practices and MLM

Barriers to Finance Barriers to Work Barriers to Homes

Raising Awareness of and Working to Remove Barriers to Work, Homes and Finance

Supporting our Community with Work, Enterprise and Wellbeing

WORK * ENTERPRISE * WELLBEING SOLO but not SOLO

Welcome to the Single Mums Business Magazine, a publication that showcases and celebrates single parents in the UK whilst helping to raise awareness of some unnecessary barriers to homes, work, and finance. I have always maintained that I want these barriers to be removed, so that we can focus on other societal issues; if we are always so consumed with trying to keep our oxygen masks on, how can we help each other and support causes that we are not directly impacted by?

When I founded the SMBN in 2019 I could never have imagined how many amazing solo parents I would meet, all doing their best to utilise their skillsets, make work work, and not only survive, but thrive in a one income per household family. Essentially, what we have here, are primary carers kicking and screaming to support the economy, instead of needing the economy to support them, despite rejections from employers and financial institutions.

It pained me to see the Conservative Government enforce sanctions that hurt primary carers, before tackling the root cause and offering a real solution, and I pray that Labour to understand how helping people will lead to better outcomes than hurting them. Until you enforce 48 weeks of full-time childcare (to also cover commute), or you enforce employers to accept 0.7FTE for 39 weeks and 0.4 FTE for 9 weeks—how can you punish parents with 4 weeks annual leave, and no room, or budget, for a nanny? How can we sanction parents for not managing to be in two places at once, for 30 hours per week, 48 weeks per year? These parents are fighting to fend for themselves whilst facing stigma, misconceptions, home insecurity, and charges for adversity.

We must do better. This magazine makes it really easy for you to see how you can help. Not only how you can help us, but how you can enable us to help you, reduce tax out, and increase tax in.

As the news has widely covered the two child cap of late, it pains me to still see our new Government talk about bringing money into the economy before offering sufficient aide, is it so hard to see that by enabling others, the economy will benefit? The stigma remains rife, having more than two children and needing support still carries blame, and assumption of poor choices.

These people need our help, they are victims of ignorance to the root causes of their status. I see so many mothers begging for work in sync with school and childcare, and I hear of the DWP crucifying them with pressure to work more than they can physically manage. It is a heartbreaking state of affairs, and that is why we need more lived experience in Governance. We understand the problems, and more importantly, we understand the solutions.

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WORK * ENTERPRISE * WELLBEING SOLO but not SOLO

We have worked incredibly hard to remove the barriers to work, homes and finance, and it is so good to see positive movement with a commitment to build more social homes, talks of financial inclusion, and new rights that enable flexible working requests from day one. You can now start a role, and then make a statutory request to work a number of different ways, whether that be term-time only, staggered hours, hybrid working, working from home or another way that helps you work as a primary carer, but employers are not embracing this, they are very quiet about letting employees know that they have new rights, I see parents stressing on a daily basis about how they will manage the school holidays, some who leave employment and recommence the work search in September as the support just isn’t adequate, and of course, it is the employee who remains in the vulnerable position of having to almost start a role under ‘pretence’ and then stand their ground with respect to their statutory rights. Surely this only increases stress and let’s be honest, probably repels employers at recruitment stage if they are mindful of what needs the employee may have. We need a lot more transparency at recruitment stage so that those of us with families can be matched with firms that truly understand our childcare needs.

We are progressing well with making finance more accessible, but we have a long way to go as millions still turn to payday lenders for unexpected expenses or short-term hardship after an already damaged credit score.

It is great to see the birth of ‘track record’ mortgages, whereby mortgage lending is based on what you have been paying in rent without arrears for the last 12 months. My belief is that this is an excellent way to level the playing field and remove the wealth divide that separates landlord from tenant. We must all have the equal opportunity to pay for our home for 30 years, rather than 70 simply because of a lack of deposit or because of previous adversity. Adversity is the most punished crime, with the longest sentence. A combination of the removal of barriers to work, homes and finance, means that we all get to be homeowners with a disposable income to benefit the circular economy.

I hope too that as this Government addresses employment law, and promises to legislate against exploitative practices, it considers the harmful practices of multi-level-marketing—otherwise known as MLM, an industry which is rife in exploiting those with barriers desperate to work, by ‘recruiting’ a work force under the ruse of self-employment, enabling them to pay commission only, evading minimum wage, sick pay, annual leave, and other rights extended to individuals working for another business to profit. We will look at the King’s Speech and how those bills help us or fall short in the next issue.

I have worked tirelessly since 2019 to help Single Mums in Business in the UK gain business exposure whilst raising awareness of barriers and and dispelling misconceptions and stigma. All of my work has been fuelled by lived experience, and not wanting others to suffer as I did. Trying to get the Conservatives to listen and understand made me grey ahead of time, the picture on the left with the former Prime Minister is the only picture you will find of me where I struggled to smile! I was incensed by his belief that NHS workers did not need food banks, and I realised that his understanding of the world was too far detached to help the real world we live in, but, I tried!

When I first wrote to a former Prime Minister in 2015 I explained our challenges, I had a response from the Prime Minister’s office to advise that my letter had been passed to the DWP. The DWP responded that they were introducing Universal Credit, that would make work work for single parents. I realised that they really didn’t understand the problem. I didn’t want to need UC, I wanted to continue my career and enjoy financial autonomy and pay tax in, not need it out. I know that UC is hell for people, as it was for me. It isn’t a safety net, it is degrading judgy torture.

When I finally managed to speak to the Prime Minister at the Hustings in August 2022, I explained my frustration that his true belief was that those who needed food banks also needed upskilling or incentivising to work. Most of us on the ground floor know that we have very skilled hard working people who cannot afford to buy food as well as pay living costs, including our NHS workers, he did not believe it, but the message was delivered.

In the last few years the Conservative government made a mockery of democracy and refused to listen, act or respond to our voices, fortunately, our voices were heard loud and clear on July 4th, and as Rishi scratched his head wondering what had gone wrong, we all knew, we tried to tell him, we tried to get him and his party to listen, but they could not relate to us at all, and that permeated through us painfully for a number of years. Now, I pray we can begin to recover. Now, we have appear to have "government of service". Let’s see if that turns out to be true.

Earlier in 2023 I attended the APPG for Single Parents which again was a real milestone moment, following years of attempts to join in. I was really pleased to finally meet Mims Davies, and gave her a copy of my book ‘Breaking out of Benefits Jail’, as Mims invited ideas on how the DWP could do better. I was of course ready and waiting for that exact question!

I am pleased to see my complaints paid off and the APPG is now more publicly advertised to enable other single parent organisations to join. My work here is done.

My evidence for the Education Committee's inquiry, Support for childcare and the early years, was also accepted and published on the UK Parliament website .

Of course we are not just campaigning for flexible, hybrid, asynchronous, or essentially any kind of work that enables us to work with caring responsibilities; we are passionate about access to finance (and homes) too. One barrier leads to another, and I have shared in great detail, and continue to share for new audiences, it is only a matter of time before your finances are negatively impacted by barriers to work, and then, more doors close, and inequality is enhanced.

The work that Karen does, along with her team at Purple Shoots is nothing short of MBE worthy. It is through Karen, that more doors have opened, and I have more recently been invited to speak at the APPG on Fair Business Banking and APPG Debt, in the House of Commons, to further raise awareness of the barriers that exist, the cost to the economy, and the solutions. I was invited to this event by Kay and Sam, who, as part of the Finance Innovation Lab team, have launched the Fair Banking for All Campaign; you can read their article in full on the next few pages.

The event was well attended by a number of incredible organisations, including Fair4All Finance, Fair By Design, Responsible Finance, UK Credit Unions as well as MP Peter Dowd, MP Yvonne Fovargue (notably both Labour MP’s) and Lord Kamall. So many people in a position to create positive change were in attendance and it really reassured me that ‘this is not how your story ends’, so, please, if you are struggling, know that work is underway to ensure that you are treated fairly, and enabled to do as well as you want to do with a good work ethic, even if that does mean working with restrictions.

It did not end there. I later joined the Bank of England in a meeting with Purple Shoots to again discuss how the rising interest rates are impacting us ‘on the ground’, for me personally, the figures that came out in the dual APPG only cemented my belief that a significant proportion of society are struggling to access finance, and so, if you are being squeezed financially by rising interest rates, and you do not have access to finance to help you weather the storm, it is double ended sword, and one where human life is collateral damage. One has to give, we must be enabled to pay our cost of living overheads short term, as we work hard to thrive long-term. It is fine to cut back on luxuries, but we need to manage in a modern world, and we need humanity to override data, instead of data overriding humanity.

The icing on the cake after these two very powerful events was our very own (Single Mums Business Network) Conference on 16th September, where, along with listening to inspirational speakers, we enjoyed a panel discussion with James Jones from Experian, Anthony Turner from Start Up Loans (delivered through the British Business Bank) and Karen Davies from Purple Shoots. We again talked about the barriers following adversity, how data drives decisions, and the different levels of support available. Crucially, we talked about how to ensure data reporting could be fairer, and what Experian are doing to ensure they are facilitating a broader view of customers spending habits and credit worthiness.

Early days, but we are getting somewhere, and we will elaborate as we progress through this publication. Please also take a look at Fair by Design https://fairbydesign.com/povertypremium/

I love, that with this magazine, we have a platform to share the voices in greater depth, of those who work so hard to support us, to enable us, to create a fairer, and more equal society. Here is an article that I invited Sam Rex-Edwards and Kay Polley to contribute, on the back of their hard work at The Finance Lab..

Why we need Fair Banking for All – and how we can achieve it High-cost credit is unfortunately an option to which millions in the UK have to turn, while many are locked out of standard banking services. Through the Fair Banking for All Campaign, an alliance of organisations is working to change this, calling for a new law. Kay Polley explains why this legislation is needed.

Over 1 million people in England are using illegal money lenders, and around 60% of these lenders’ victims are women, according to a recent study. Even before the pandemic and the current cost-ofliving crisis, over 3 million people in the UK were forced to use high-cost credit, often in the form of ‘payday loans’. Being unable to access affordable credit means that vulnerable families can spiral into crisis if they have an unexpected cost.

A user of payday loans who recently took part in an online workshop with the Fair Banking for All Campaign describes their predicament: “I needed to borrow money and went to my bank. I was working and they could see I could afford it, but I was refused. I had to use a payday loan. I’m not proud of it. The problem is, though, little things can happen, that’s how they get you and they keep you in that kind of loop – getting the money, paying it back, but then getting halfway through the month and having nothing left. I got stuck in this cycle of payday loans.”

Many small businesses are also currently unable to access the banking services they need, and women-led businesses are being declined bank loans at double the overall rate.

Another workshop participant said: “You fill in a questionnaire online and it’s a machine which says no, there’s no humanity now, no way to show that I could afford the repayments.”

The Fair Banking for All Campaign is calling for a new law, the Fair Banking Act. This law would mean that high street banks and building societies would have to publicly share data on who they are currently serving. Based on this information they would be given a rating that would reflect how well they are tackling financial exclusion and serving marginalised communities. Those with a poor rating would have to take action to improve. Banks could do this by providing services themselves, for example opening affordable credit programmes, or they could choose to support community finance providers such as Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs) or credit unions.

Community finance providers are often much better placed to support people and businesses who struggle to access mainstream banking services. Using a relationship-based approach, they take time to speak to their customers to better understand their circumstances, what they need, and whether they can afford loan repayments.

A workshop participant who had received support from their local CDFI said: “They’re great because they speak to you like a human being, they understand that things happen.

If something happens and you have to miss a payment you don’t have to feel stressed, having to rip your hair out trying to figure it out and stay up all night. It’s OK, ‘just speak to us and we’ll sort it out’. … [I]t’s given me more confidence within myself to deal with things financially, without feeling like I was failing at being an adult.”

These organisations can provide a lifeline for individuals, families and businesses. Of the small businesses that recently received lending from CDFIs, 99% had previously been refused by other lenders. And of the businesses CDFIs lend to, disproportionately more are led by women or by individuals from a Black, Asian or minority ethnic background compared with the UK average.

Recent lending to small businesses by CDFIs has led to 8,180 jobs being created or secured.

‘Recent lending to small businesses by CDFIs has led to 8,180 jobs being created or secured’ A Fair Banking Act would result in mainstream financial institutions working in partnership with community finance, providing a much needed boost to help the sector grow and enabling it to support more people.

Millions more people and small businesses would be able to access vital services such as affordable credit, and would no longer have to pay the high interest rates of payday loans or turn to illegal lenders.

The Fair Banking for All Campaign has published a full policy paper on the potential of a Fair Banking Act, and is now seeking to gain cross-party support from MPs. You can get involved by writing to or meeting your MP – contact the Fair Banking for All Campaign for resources and support:

visit https://fairbankingforall.org/ find @fairbankingforall on social media, or email sam-kay@financeinnovationlab.org.

Kay is head of movement building and campaigns at the Finance Innovation Lab, a role she job-shares with Sam Rex-Edwards.

I applaud this article and fully support the campaign for the Fair Banking Act. #fairbankingforall Thank you to Kay, Sam and all of the team at The Finance Innovation Lab for your continued hard work.

Purple Shoots Business Lending (“Purple Shoots”) is a not-for-profit micro finance

organisation and a registered charity.

They can help you in two ways: •

Through finance. We provide small business loans at fair rates, we aren’t sharks! It’s easy to apply, with some simple forms to fill in and a meeting. We can offer help with the form filling. Sounds too good to be true? We have a track record of six years, helping people who needed a hand up, not just more hand outs. and we have made a real difference to many people’s lives.

•

By creating self-reliant groups (SRGs) – We provide a place for you to get together with other local people and learn new skills. Come and get empowered! Share your ideas and save and make money with other people. Take back control over your life and make better opportunities for yourself, your family and your community.

Being financially independent and working to save money might seem like a pipe dream.

The thing is, all you need is a ”break” and Purple Shoots is committed to offering you one.

Purple Shoots is a registered UK charity and a Responsible Finance Provider.

www.purpleshoots.org

There are many ways to be self-employed and earn a full-time income, exceeding what you would earn in standard employment governed by minimum wage. The only thing you HAVE to do is work really hard at it! Self-employment isn’t a ruse to keep people quiet for a year, nor is it a ticket to an easy life where you only work a few hours per week for a passive income. What it is, is an opportunity to set your own earning limits, to attend your own meetings and school plays, and to genuinely excel at doing what you love that also serves others and remunerates you.

Most of the suggestions below can easily generate £100 per day—£2K per month, for 5 x £20. plus an hour to set aside tax. Get thinking, get doing! Only you can stop you!

The benefit of the MIF (Minimum Income Floor) is that you have 12 months to say ‘this is me, this is what I do, this is me, this is what I do, this is me, this is what I do, this is me, this is what I do……’

The list is ENDLESS—but crucially you can spend two decades or a lifetime on benefits or you can spend a couple of years training up to do something you LOVE. If you are 46, you will be fully qualified in pretty much anything by 50 and you can spend 25 years enjoying work and paying a big fat tax bill—we just need GOVERNMENT to make sure there aren’t barriers, we need to make sure all of these careers can be worked in childcare hours, OR, you need to learn everything there is to know about selfemployment and work for yourself. There is always a way.

‘We’re gonna do it anyway We’re gonna do it anyway’

ISBN-13 : 979-8871698921

Here are some pictures from the Single Mums Business Network (SMBN) Conference 2023, which was able to go ahead thanks to the Sponsorship of Nirvana Investors; it was so important for many reasons as explained in the article overpage, but my special thanks goes to Val Hood, Nehaya Zitawi, Tia and Kaylyn, Danielle Baron, Joe Constant, Karen Davies and Mike Lewis from Purple Shoots, James Jones from Experian, Anthony Turner from the British Business Bank Start Up Loans and of course all of our delegates, including the lovely Sarah Cook from ’Come Network with Me’ and Di Goode. The venue (Origin Workspace) was magical and the team were exemplary as they took care of us all throughout the day.

The 2023 Conference was fabulous, as we shared stories and were able, due to the intimate nature, to talk, and crucially listen, to the delegates throughout our talks.

Val Hood kicked off the event by sharing her story as a single mum who was struggling in the UK, to becoming the internationally acclaimed medium, residing in Australia, that she is today. Val offered inspiration and advice and delivered a surprise message to one of our speakers! All will be revealed in due course! Val actually had a surprise open as delegate Di Goode offered to sing, and relaxed us all with her rendition of ‘Something Inside So Strong ‘ by Lani Siffre.

We then enjoyed our panel discussion with Karen, James and Anthony, to discuss business finance, credit scoring, fair data, barriers to finance, CCJs and the bigger picture, and much more. It was so very lovely to have these individuals in situ with one common goal, to listen, to learn, to share working progress, and to do better. To drive change we must be honest. Pride is damaging, not only to ourselves but to those who walk in our shoes. Let us be real, let us be human, let us be kind.

After a lovely networking coffee lunch we reconvened to share this new safe space that we had found, whilst enjoying the wisdom of our afternoon speakers, Danielle Baron and Joe Constant, who taught us in 2 minutes what it took them a lifetime to learn, equally, sharing their truth and vulnerabilities, further enhancing the safety of the delegates to open up and ask honest questions and reflect in a way that evidenced the impact of the day.

We then relaxed for some further networking and 1-1 advice and honestly, quite a lot of hugs and mutual appreciation. Thank you to ALL of you for being a part of the event, and thank you again to Pollyanna England, of Nirvana Investors, for enabling us to make it happen, as she was busy climbing Everest in her own moment of conquer.

There was an abundance of Love and Laughter, and I just HAD to shake my booty in Danielle’s Ms Great Britain (finalist) Sash! - it was fun!

We are pausing out Conference for 2024 - but we’ll be back!

‘The more you refuse to hear my voice The louder I will sing’ Tbc!....

The BOOK – Single Mum & 21st Century Peasant – Breaking out of Benefits Jail I have held a number of webinars to address barriers to adequate work, homes and finance, and consequential need for benefits. This book shares my own journey as a Single Mum and self-proclaimed 21st Century Peasant, as I share information, advice and tips on how to escape the benefits trap, as I did. It is not linear. I thought it was, before I knew. I thought it was black and white, you simply get a job. If you are reading this; the chances are you already know what a battle it is, not to need support, when there are barriers and sharks at play.

But trust me, it can be done! I am a single mum, my daughter is eleven, benefits are behind me, and I enjoy paying tax again instead of needing to continue to claim it back. I wasn’t privileged at all, I didn’t have the bank of mum and dad or free or cheap lodgings to help me get on my feet, the banks refused to help as soon as I was in hardship, and the sharks fed from my wounds, enjoying profiting from my desperation. Landlords rejected me and friends and family were too fearful to act as guarantors.

Between the banks, the landlords, the 9-5 presenteeism, and cheap unhealthy diet I bled hard, I cried hard, and I didn’t want to carry on at all, but we do, for our children, and my daughter was my guiding light back to peace, pride, purpose and disposable income!

What I share with you is not a get rich quick scheme, it is not a high ticket trick to feed from your hunger, this is sharing what I have learned in a decade, what I wished somebody had told me in my first week of being a single mum, it is intended to save you from wasting too much time and to guide you to do everything you can to help yourself in a positive way.

The purpose of this book is to have a positive impact, and to support the work of the SMBN, which is a business network with a social conscience, full of women contributing to not only helping themselves, but helping each other, and helping our wider community.

You can buy the book on Amazon or from the main SMBN website— Amazon is the most expensive (royalties) - but you can also pay weekly if £10.99 is too much in one go — details on SMBN website—Just GOOGLE SMBN

From Humble - St Harley St A Journey of Financial Empowerment Norma Cassius, a Money Management Consultant and Psychotherapist specialises in empowering women to skilfully manage both their money and mindset.

As the Founder and Author of ‘Think Like A Bank’ she possesses a seven-figure property portfolio. Through sharing her personal story, Norma sheds light on her transformative journey towards financial empowerment.

Article by

Norma Cassius

valuable lessons. Through their everyday oneliners addressing diverse financial aspects, they inadvertently educated and empowered us.

A cherished financial one-liner from my father echoed, ‘Never rent a property because paying your rent for 25 years, and you miss a week, they will chuck you out’. That simple statement sowed a seed of determination in my mind, compelling me to evade such a fate. Consequently, at the age of 21, I purchased my first property. As time unfolded, I consistently expanded my property portfolio, driven by the belief that attaining financial stability was an achievable goal.

At the age of 30, I found myself as a single parent raising three young children, all while I contended with the financial strain of managing a mortgage on a part-time salary. My ‘cost of living crisis’ persisted for over a decade. Leveraging my extensive 10-plus years of banking experience at the time coupled with the valuable financial wisdom passed down from my parents, I successfully navigated through those exceptionally challenging circumstances.

‘Never rent a property because paying your rent for 25 years, and you miss a week, they will chuck you out’.

The story of my life commences in the 1960s as a black woman born to Windrush parents in London. Growing up in an inner-city neighbourhood, my diligent parents worked tirelessly to provide for me and my five siblings. I vividly recall my mum boiling water in pots to wash our clothes and using paraffin heaters to warm our home. We may have lacked modern amenities but the overflow of love compensated for that. In the face of humble beginnings, my parents fostered in us a sense of gratitude for what we had and an unwavering determination to succeed in life.

Conversations about financial matters were often deemed ‘adult affairs’, and the guidance given to me and my siblings usually centred on securing employment and saving money. Nevertheless, my parents with their exceptional money management practices, unintentionally conveyed

During this period, I resorted to shopping in four different supermarkets each week to make ends meet. Despite diligently acquiring all the necessities, my purse was consistently left empty.

Every penny had to be strategically stretched as I aimed to utilise my annual bonus to fly my children out every year.

As a single mum, I recognised that sustaining my family on a part-time salary was not viable due to the ongoing financial challenges. Determined to improve my financial situation, I decided to embark on a journey to become a psychotherapist.

Balancing part-time work at the bank with my studies was no easy feat.

There were numerous occasions when I contemplated quitting my studies, but I constantly reminded myself that there was no turning back if I wanted to enhance my income to become a self-employed money management consultant and psychotherapist.

The difficulties I faced during this period were not unique, as research from the RBS Group in 2013 highlighted that UK women’s businesses have a higher churn rate (i.e. more start-ups and closures). Interestingly, women were less likely to attribute business closure to ‘business failure’ and more likely to cite ‘personal reasons’ which peaked at age 25-34 for women.

These statistics evidence the ongoing struggle we face. While my journey was not without its tests and trials, I used each stumbling block as a stepping stone propelling me to rise above and attain my goals.

People around me marvelled at how I managed to maintain a quality of life that ‘seemed’ beyond my means. The constant questioning about

my financial strategies led me to write Think Like A Bank, a platform aimed at empowering women with financial education.

I launched financial bootcamps, an Investor property programme, I also offer a mastermind and online course. The key message I convey is ‘it’s not what you have but what you do with what you have, knowledge is always required’.

Against all odds, I was determined to rise above adversity. I now run a successful private practice, own a seven-figure property portfolio, and oversee a business that is expanding globally. My life’s path has been a testament to the transformative power of financial education and developing the right mindset.

The challenges I faced as a single parent only strengthened my resolve to achieve financial independence which eventually paved the way for my success. I want to inspire other women to do the same. From the streets of my childhood to the prestigious location of my thriving practice, I hold my head high, knowing that my journey from Humble Street to Harley Street is a story of empowerment and triumph.

NORMA’S TOP FIVE TIPS

1. Prioritise paying off your debts over increasing your savings. The minimal interest paid on your savings is no comparison to the high interest incurred on your debts.

2. Monitor all your income and expenditure effortlessly by using a FREE budgeting or banking app.

3. Create a realistic detailed budget that allows you to allocate every penny and pound to its designated purpose.

4. A credit score opens doors to better financial product deals, whether it’s a mortgage, credit card, loan, etc. Ensure to regularly check and maintain your credit score.

5. Establish short and long-term financial goals.

Stay accountable by sharing your goals with someone you trust, to ensure you stay on course.

Money Management Consultant Psychotherapist MBACP (Accred) Email: info@thinklikeabank.co.uk Web: www.normacassius.com

Unveiling the Realities of Online and In-Person Grooming: Ensuring the Safety of Our Children

As responsible parents, there's a topic that frequently causes discomfort and is often avoided. It's a distressing and unpleasant issue. Nonetheless, I've chosen to write this article to support the 1 in 20 children in our country who experience sexual abuse. This concern is particularly alarming for single parents who are more vulnerable, as predators tend to target them. Single parents are perceived as easy targets due to their very likely state of being overwhelmed and lacking support. The solution lies in education, enabling us to recognise signs of grooming and take action against it. Groomers can be anyone – not just clinical paedophiles, but individuals like fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, neighbours, short-term or long-term boyfriends of parents, and even afterschool club supervisors. While it might seem biased, statistics support the fact that most sexual abuse is perpetrated by men. Around 96 percent of child sexual abusers are male, and 76 percent of them are married. Although there are cases of women involved in abuse, they are often influenced by a male partner, which is equally unacceptable. Despite under-reporting and limited documentation of female sexual abuse, data still suggests that men are more prone to committing such acts against children.

Even those in heterosexual relationships with adults can be perpetrators. Someone engaged in sexual relationships with adult women may also abuse boys, and those who abuse children of one gender are inclined to abuse children of the opposite gender.

The subtle, insidious nature of grooming sometimes becomes evident only in hindsight. In today's digital era, the internet offers a valuable platform for information and superficial connections. However, it's important to recognise the inherent risks associated with these connections.

Grooming can occur in a crowded room or the adjacent one. It takes a mere second. It can be

Article by Danielle Baron

disguised as innocent play or tickling, appearing harmless to onlookers. The child is often manipulated and made to believe they are overreacting in the moment.

It's crucial for children to avoid interacting with individuals they haven't met face-to-face. This caution should extend further – children shouldn't communicate with anyone, even if they know them, without parental consent. Even familiar figures like Uncle Tony or Grandad George may have hidden motives. Despite our compassionate beliefs, the unfortunate reality is that most instances of abuse originate from family, friends, or acquaintances, including some of those initiated through online interactions. Even when dealing with family and friends your child is familiar with, it's essential to remain vigilant about offers of childcare and special attention to your child. While this could be innocent, trust your instincts and don't hesitate to appear cautious if necessary.

Initiating open conversations that raise awareness about grooming is essential, equipping your child to identify warning signs before you do. Despite their inherent goodness, children often project this goodness onto others, leaving them susceptible to manipulation. Unfortunately, individuals might mask their true intentions with a façade of kindness. While it's heart-wrenching to temper their curiosity and innocence, it's far more devastating if an unfortunate incident occurs. As a parent, it's preferable to be seen as overly over the top than to face a tragic outcome.

Similar to real-world interactions, groomers exploit seemingly innocent avenues to initiate their schemes and seize every opportunity to employ their manipulative tactics. Single parents are particularly at risk in this regard. It's important to realise that grooming isn't limited to paedophiles. Groomers can be anyone – even married individuals with families who are not clinically paedophiles but are child molesters when the opportunity presents itself.

Five Approaches to Educate Your Child aboutAustralia Online Grooming: Foster Open Communication: Cultivate an environment of trust and open dialogue where your child feels at ease discussing their online activities and concerns.

Regularly ask about their online interactions, providing a listening ear without judgment. Failing to promote this communication leaves them susceptible and exposed – a form of neglect.

Teach Privacy: Educate your child on safeguarding personal information. Emphasise the importance of not sharing details like their full name, address, school, or phone number. Make them aware that predators can exploit such information for manipulation. Tell them that the swimming costume area is their private area and no one should be touching anywhere there for any reason. Teach them the proper names for the body parts which could be crucial if they ever have to disclose.

Recognise Warning Signs: Train your child to recognise red flags during online conversations. Discuss signs such as secretive communication, requests for personal information, and an overly keen interest in their life.

Encourage them to trust their instincts and exercise caution.

Differentiate Online Friends: Help your child distinguish between online friends and real-life friends.

Emphasise that not everyone online has good intentions, even if they seem friendly. Advise them to limit interactions to people they know offline and to avoid forming close relationships with strangers.

Teach Reporting and Blocking: Equip your child with the knowledge to block and report users on the platforms they use. Ensure they understand how to report suspicious behaviour to platform administrators and to you. Reporting is responsible, not weak.

Additional Tip: Stay Informed Yourself: Familiarise yourself with your child's online platforms and daily routines to offer better guidance and understand

Article by Danielle Baron

potential risks. Stay updated on online safety practices and digital trends to effectively address emerging challenges.

Remember, preventing in person and online grooming requires educating yourself as a parent and keeping updated and aware. Revisit these discussions regularly with your child as they mature and gain more online independence. By fostering awareness and offering guidance, you empower your child to navigate the digital world safely.

Indicators to Watch for as a Parent: Secrecy and Privacy: If your child becomes excessively secretive about their online and in person activities, concealing screens or devices, they might be hiding interactions they don't want you to know about.

Excessive Online Time: Prolonged late-night online activity could indicate inappropriate engagement. Or excessive attention on your child that just doesn’t feel right. Groomers often invest time to establish connections.

Sharing Personal Information: If your child starts revealing sensitive details to online friends or acquaintances, it's a potential sign of manipulation.

Emotional Changes: Noticeable shifts in mood or behaviour might indicate grooming. Investigate if your child becomes withdrawn, anxious, or irritable without an apparent cause.

Compliments, Gifts, or Money: Groomers frequently manipulate through compliments, attention, gifts, or money. Unexplained gifts or money from online sources are significant warning signs.

https://daniellebaron.co.uk

LET’S GET STARTED

READY TO BUILD THE BUSINESS OF YOUR DREAMS? The Harmony Business Academy is like no other business school out there.

I designed it specifically for Wellness Businesses based from home or mobile, I have also taken into account all the things I have tried, tested and taught over the last 15+ years in the health and wellness industry, so I have cut out all the cr#p and am giving you the cream of the crop with my mentorship, support groups and programmes.

Our new earth style business transformation programmes are for female led wellness businesses, who want to create a unique business strategy & structure, with a consistent flow of reliable soul clients, with increased income and free time. The HBA provides simple, proven and aligned spiritual business formulas to achieve just this!

LEARN TO CALL IN YOUR SOUL AUDIENCE WITH JANE

https://www.harmonybusinessacademy.com/work-with-me Calling in your soul audience doesn't have to be hard, here at HBA it's all about Connecting, Co-Creating with the Divine & Activating Success Codes within you, and the business, learning to use the right tools and technologies needed to create a sacred business, with a consistent flow of soul clients, which will produce a reliable monthly income, more free time to spend as you wish and a business strategy that you can use to grow when you want.

Australia Quickly double your investment?

Jane Scanlan

THIS IS NOT MY KIND OF BUSINESS COACHING MESSAGE! Here at The Harmony Business Academy, we believe that steady and consistent positive business behaviour wins the race, yes you do have to put the effort in, yes you do have to do the course work, show up for the calls and tune into your guidance or true compass, because…

There is no such thing as a quick win!

Every success you see out there, has worked to the best of their ability, taken inspired action and invested their time and money into their craft.

You and I are no different...However, we don't need to buy into the "work hard" mentality. I believe that with connection, co-creation, downloads, and activations, (plus the right tech) and a big dose of inspired action you and your business will succeed.

HOW IT WORKS

01 Channelled Discovery Call FREE Unleash Your Business Potential with this Free Channelled Discovery Call: Share Your Vision, Dreams and Goals with Me Today! Let's Create the Perfect Strategy Together, with a Sprinkle of Help from The Divine

02

03 Mindful Maintenance

STARTING FROM £111 Mindful Maintenance is a Monthly Membership to help you develop a mindful maintenance tick list for the business that will keep the flow of prospective soul clients coming your way, keep your current clients happy and your bank account increasing due to high retention rates and so much more. You'll be supported in a monthly container with group calls, teachings, and accountability.

WANT TO LEARN MORE BEFORE JOINING?

Illuminate 16 Week Journey STARTING FROM £1111 16-week journey to Connect, Co-Create and Activate Success into your wellness business. This new earth style business transformation programme is for female led wellness businesses who want to create a unique business strategy & structure, with a consistent flow of reliable soul clients, and increased income, with my simple, proven and aligned spiritual business formula.

Join me on a Channelled Discovery Call to Unleash Your Business Potential with this Discovery Call: Share Your Vision, Dreams and Goals with Me Today!

Let's Create the Perfect Strategy Together, with a Sprinkle of Help from The Divine https://go.oncehub.com/Harmony-BusinessAcademy Or text “Name and Claim HBA Call” to 07889205548

I know something needs to change, but where do I start?

Life is a series of changes, and sometimes we know wholeheartedly where you want to go, and sometimes it feels like no matter where you turn, there’s a block. You can sense that things are just the other side of a door, but which door do you pick?

You’ve read the Secret, you get the Law of Attraction, but when does it JUST work?! You want to feel connected, to really be able to love properly. You want motivation and confidence that lasts and doesn’t burn you out. And mostly, you just want to feel happy. To be able to enjoy life and the people around you.

I realised that my biggest detriment was my mindset.

After working in Residential Care for over 10 years with children and teenagers, using typical counselling skills, therapeutic and psychological skills, I realised that one size does not fit all: My main undeniable strength was always being able to create a bespoke plan for each person, and I quickly progressed into creating my own in-house training programmes. I was fed up with seeing everyone squeezed into this tiny mould; if you don’t fit, you’re left feeling broken, unfixable, or a ‘problem’.

One Size Does Not Fit All! When you have a session with me, we will explore how the mind works to understand why those thoughts are there. We pinpoint where they have come from, challenge them and then get back in control of your mind and life, be confident, and get motivation that is consistent!

You don’t have to be trapped by the “I can’t” mindset anymore.

Australia As a society, we accept that people have different tastes in music, food, preferences in partners and respond to these different stimuli in varying ways, and so why do we think that one approach will work for everyone who is struggling?

If I could change one thing, it would be to make our GP surgeries more like a community hub for Health and Social Care, whereby all local services are promoted and offered whether it is coaching, a gym membership, reflexology, nutritionists for allergies, etc.

NEHAYA

We browse shops, hair styles, cars, fitness classes, and so we should be supported to try out different methods when it comes to our mental health and wellbeing. I believe that this would not only save the NHS and tax payers money by reducing the amount currently paid out in Sick Pay, but it would also mean for happier and more balanced people and better overall wellbeing in our workforce, children and adults, which ultimately leads to less suicides and people leaving loved ones because they just didn’t know where else to turn.

Contact Nehaya If you are interested in working with me, then click onto my Calendly page to book a free call Alternatively, you can also book in for a one off Spiritual Guidance session, where we can connect and gain some clarity on a situation that you are finding challenging right now. www.calendly.com/nehaya

MEMBERSHIP You can join the SMBN as a member if you are a Single Mum in employment, business or an unemployed single mum wanting to be surrounded by positive information and advice around business or work, and you can join as a friend, if you are married or male! but, we have strict rules against MLM recruiting, so if you join and are targeted for MLM, or gambling investments, that person will be removed. It is a safe space to support you on your ‘own’ business or work journey.

As a private member of the Single Mums Business Network, here are just some of the great benefits you will receive:

Vibrant social events that bring members, friends, and sponsors together such as summer party and winter ball / awards (all family friendly!)

Support with personal and professional development with monthly national zoom meetings and 1-1’s Inclusion in the quarterly Single Mums Business Magazine and on website You will be actively demonstrating that you are supporting our positive social impact mission whilst supporting other single mums in business as it is not only you who benefits from your membership Benefit from the SMBN’s good external relationships with stakeholders You will be investing in your commitment to succeed in financial health and autonomy

All you need to do is make a nominal commitment of £10pcm, or £2.50 per week

www.singlemumsbusinessnetwork.co.uk

Member Article - Bill sharing is not new!

Households are run in a variety of ways that aren't always visible to financial institutions. It's personalised, private and not a one size fits all.

Over time, regulated frameworks and methods have been developed to evaluate the risk of lending to individuals. However, in an ever changing world and society, little has changed in these frameworks to keep up with the modern household in ensuring credit scoring and credit worthiness remains inclusive and fair.

In basic terms, a credit score is a set of data reflecting your history with credit. A creditworthy borrower is one who is able and responsible enough to repay their debts in a timely manner.

Billdup is being created to provide an option for bill sharers to self report their payments to credit reference agencies and lenders. To log their financial footprints, show financial responsibility and financial connections to others.

When interviewing bill sharers who were often women and young professionals; we found bills were in an individual's name, who would pay the bill and receive contributions from another/others. Other times, bills would be 'fairly' allocated and split by value.

Overall, people had no problem paying towards bills but they knew the monthly contributions, often running into hundreds of pounds landing in someone else's account, made the named bill payer appear financially 'good' whilst leaving them invisible.

It's recognised, the named bill payer bares the full responsibility of fulfilling the payment especially if things go wrong and that sharing arrangement breaks down. However when it works, and it works well, everyone paying towards the bills does not benefit on this payment data?

Anyone who's ever taken out a personal loan or car finance will know the value of their regular bill contributions can often equal or surpass monthly repayments for these types of 'credit' products. The commitment to meet their share of bills can easily continue way beyond the standard three to five years credit repayment period; rather it can be an ongoing commitment, with no specified end date.

There is a problem here, and it's not the way people decide on how to financially run their households.

Bill sharing is not new but customers sharing that split payment information is.

Sharing this information using Billdup is possible, simple and safe, in a process not much different to setting up a standing order payment.

When Billdup launches this year, customers will affect their credit score within three months of using our app.

Join us in building a community of people who want to increase financial fairness, financial inclusion and improve their credit score.

If that's you, be one of the first 1,000 users to use our beta app when we launch this year. Yes, we are limiting access for the first 3 months for a test run and valuable feedback.

Help us reach the beta user target and one lucky Billdup customer will have one monthly bill contribution paid for on us, for being part of the beta phase.

If you split and share bill payments, sign up here to receive our launch email: https://billdup.com/

I’m Claire Harris founder of Pets 2 Places, the worlds first pet taxi franchise. Pets 2 Places is so much more than just a taxi service though.

It’s a multi award winning company with heart, ethos and passion.

Pets 2 Places was founded in 2014, as a service that takes customers with their pets to the vets. It quickly grew into taking owners anywhere they needed to go with their pets, including groomers, kennels, over to see their friends, even on holiday and for divorced couple’s sharing custody of their dog/s.

Pets 2 Places isn’t just about the service though, I’ve become the country’s leading expert on pet transport, I’ve created an awareness day to highlight the importance of transporting pets correctly. Pet Travel Safety Day is now an annual awareness day on 1st July. Alongside this awareness day I aim to educate all dog owners and other pet professionals about transporting pets with the creation of a dog transport course.

I’m also looking to undertake some research and development into accidents involving dogs, to create my own range of crash tested equipment.

I love what I do and I have built a great business around my family commitments.

I am offering franchise opportunities across the UK, this is a comprehensive package with tailored help and support. No two customers are the same so no two franchisees are the same. I can help franchisees not just with training on day to day running of the service and the high level of customers service we offer, but also marketing and publicity for their business, gaining them free advertising.

I can’t wait to build my team and help other people to love what they do.

Pop on over to our social media to see how much our customers truly value the service and what I do.

I can’t think of a better role than being with animals all day and called an angel and a god send all day. Its truly an honour to be able to help people with their pets.

Franchisees need to be animal lovers and be good with people, that’s it, no need to have any business knowledge, no marketing background. I can teach people all of those things, what I cant teach is how to be a good person in their core. If you really want to help people, I want to hear from you

Website: www.pets2places.co.uk Facebook: @petsplacesmilton Keynes. @pets2placesfranchiseopportunites

Email: info@pets2places.co.uk Phone: 07548926220

Founder of Pet Travel Safety Day on July 1st #pettravelsafetyday

Ethical Franchising - The problem with Contract Law Claire won an award at this years SMBN Awards for ethical franchising. Since starting the SMBN in 2019, a number of desperate women have turned to me for advice after they have been treated so ruthlessly by franchisors. Two had been widowed and more than one were in extreme adversity. A franchise is designed to be a proven business model with a fantastic support structure enabling you to achieve what the franchisor has achieved, but we have lengthy and complex contracts that really lock the franchisee in, causing them great harm, distress, and suicidal thoughts when they need out. More work needs to be done to put ethical break clauses into contract law.

As I have reported in great length, contract law, whilst designed to protect the purpose of a contract, has over the years proved to hurt the individual enabling unethical businesses to hid behind the contract, removing humanity from the equation. This page is to set an intention, and to ask for a call to action, to look at Contract Law, Ethics, and Humanity. We must ALL do better. I celebrate Claire choosing to treat others the way she wishes she was treated when she was a widowed franchisee.

Animal Rights - Homes & Healthcare Contract Law feeds into so many areas of life, not least giving large companies the power to enforce a CCJ where contract law protects them, and removes the balance of power for the individual with limited funds to argue a breach or human reason for needing to exit the contract, and protect themselves from a legal, but unethical, wrong, and inhumane debt. The CCJ then impacts decisions such as rental application, some job and professional membership applications, and sadly, applications for a payment plan to cover the cost of vet bills.

We do not expect that we will fall on hard times when we start a family, or grow our family with the love of pets, but when we have pets, if we are unable to cover pet care or secure a rental property, we are forced to hand them over to an animal rescue centre, breaking our hearts, our families, and praying that they find a good home. If you are in receipt of benefits charities may help reduce vet bills or help with emergency care, but if you succeed in not turning to benefits, but still have a damaged credit score, there is no way to fund emergency pet care. Our four legged families need the Rentals (Reform) Bill.

Alimenti was set up following my experience of working with small food producers in my role with Sodexo, as the technical lead for the buying team. I had coached several micro and small business owners through the approval process and felt that I could make a living from doing this independently.

I have a wealth of experience as a microbiologist and technical manager working in factories producing everything from bacon to ready meals. I was also commissioned to write a chapter for a handbook for global distribution for 3M on rapid hygiene assessment technologies.

If you would like a free download, get in touch for the link.

My clients now range from start

ups to established food businesses that want to grow their business.

They are producing ready meals, sauces and pastes, snacks, and alcohol, at all temperature ranges from frozen through chilled to ambient, as well as handling these in a warehouse. They use all sorts of packaging from bottles to cases to trays made from plastic, compostable material and wood.

There are allergen free products and allergenic products in the mix.

Some of my clients have accreditations such as SALSA.

I am qualified as a BRCGS lead auditor for food.

Alimenti Food Sciences- getting to the core of food safety

Louise Roberts I am always happy to have an informal chat with food business owners who want to grow their business.

My website is www.alimenti.co.uk I can help food producers with any aspect of food safety from HACCP to microbiological testing plan review. Whilst a HACCP plan, and its review is a legal requirement, testing plans are often set up and left running with no one on the organization qualified to review them. I can help with this and may even save you money on the testing required.

Get in touch and let’s talk about what keeps you awake at 3am. Let me take the stress of food safety away and you can sleep again.

When I opted to go self employed as the single mum of a baby and a toddler, it was partly out of inspiration and in equal parts… desperation. I could not see how the low wage I was on could ever allow me to build a life for me and my kids that went beyond suffering and struggling. It seemed that the longer hours I worked, the less return I got for it, and the more my home life suffered. I was stressed and getting ill regularly. Any free time I did have, I ended up back at work making up the inevitable lost hours covering sick leave I’d taken for myself or the kids. With their dad living an hour away, it was up to me to cover before and after school care, whether by adjusting my work hours to suit, or swallowing up any earnings paying for childcare. It was a massive losing game with seemingly no way out.

Taking the leap into self employment as a coach and therapist felt like a no-brainer, since these modalities had such a huge impact on my own self esteem, self worth and self confidence. I felt passionately that my training by some of the best in the business of personal change would stand me in good stead to help other people make meaningful changes to their perspectives and ultimately their lives, as I had and continue to do.

However, it meant believing in something that I did not yet have evidence for: that I could find and help enough clients in order to replace and exceed my employed income, and that I could continue to do this beyond the immediate future into the longer term.

In truth, I had no idea that this was possible. There were an awful lot of business coaches wanting to teach me the strategies for success, and I willingly gave them my money and learnt a lot about how to operate an online business in the process. I always say that if you offered me a refund on any of the courses I’ve taken, but you would also take away anything I learnt… that I would keep the learnings any day of the week. That includes those investments that led to the coaches probably being able to buy their 187th Chanel handbag. I needed guidance, and I got it. The skills we need in business are not taught to us in mainstream schools and in my view, we must take responsibility for learning them

ourselves in order to succeed. I aim to maintain my ethical and moral compasses while operating a business that delivers huge value to people as they engage in personal development and change work.

However, as one of my mentors says, there is only one strategy for success: Get in the game, Stay in the game, Learn, Grow and Adapt. This gets truer by the day as we face an unsettled global financial market, and as businesses around us are failing at an alarming rate. When we commit to staying in the game, we also commit to learning, growing and adapting to meet the challenges we will inevitably face. As single parents, I believe we have the ultimate driver in that we know that we lead our families and we want to lead them into a better life with the mindset, skills and resilience to be able to achieve their own version of success, when the time comes.

If you are interested in building your emotional resilience and adaptability, this is the work that I do in the World. I believe that learning to work with our thoughts and emotions in a more dynamic way makes us better business owners, leaders, parents, friends, partners and members of our community. I believe it may very well be the key to surviving in the troubled times we find ourselves in.

You can contact me at claire@clairestanden.com or look up my Facebook Group *Grounded Feminine* where I lead a community interested in personal development.

www.itsasoniathing.com

Resilience and Empowerment In a world where divorce is often stigmatized, Sonia Gupta's journey stands as a testament to resilience and empowerment. Her story, spanning over a decade, is one of unwavering determination to break free from a toxic marriage and reclaim her happiness. As she navigated through the complexities of divorce within the Asian community, Sonia faced numerous challenges, but her unwavering spirit prevailed.

Sonia's journey towards liberation began in 2010, driven by a simple desire for a happier and more peaceful life for herself and her beloved boys. Despite the toxicity of her marriage, she fought tirelessly for seven years to make her family understand the truth. However, manipulation and lack of support made her path even more arduous.

Navigating through divorce proceedings while still living under the same roof with her exhusband proved to be emotionally draining for Sonia. The constant war with her family, who initially opposed her decision to divorce, added another layer of complexity to her journey. Despite the challenges, Sonia remained steadfast in her pursuit of freedom.

After years of struggle, Sonia finally achieved liberation and in September 2021 the divorce party she threw to celebrate her newfound independence went viral, sparking conversations about the stigma surrounding divorce in the Asian community. Sonia's boldness in sharing her story inspired countless others who were silently suffering in similar situations.

The profound impact of Sonia's story extended far beyond her own life. Messages poured in from individuals worldwide, expressing gratitude for her courage and finding hope in her journey. By speaking out, Sonia shattered the taboo surrounding divorce and empowered others to fight for their happiness.

The stigma surrounding divorce in the Asian community is deeply ingrained, often preventing individuals from seeking freedom from toxic relationships. Sonia's journey highlights the need to challenge these societal norms and support those who choose to break free from unhealthy marriages.

As Sonia reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of selfempowerment and resilience. Through her story, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their truth and pursue happiness, no matter the obstacles they may face. Ultimately, Sonia's journey serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating through the darkness of toxic relationships, showing that there is light at the end ofthetunnel.

In many Asian communities, the concept of divorce is shrouded in stigma and fear, particularly concerning its potential impact on children and familial honour. Yet, behind closed doors, individuals like Sonia Gupta grapple with the tumultuous journey of separation, navigating cultural expectations while striving for personal happiness and liberation.

Sonia's journey began amidst a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainties. As she contemplated divorce, a myriad of questions flooded her mind, each one laden with cultural nuances and familial obligations.

Should she stay for the sake of her parents?

Would she be judged by her community? Was she betraying her cultural identity by seeking her own happiness?

Amidst the turmoil, Sonia sought solace in counselling, recognizing the importance of prioritizing her mental well-being amidst societal pressures. Despite the lack of familial support, she forged ahead, determined to carve a path towards a brighter future for herself and her children.

Guilt weighed heavily upon Sonia, a constant companion as she navigated the complexities of divorce within the confines of cultural norms.

The fear of disappointing her family and community loomed large, yet she knew deep within that she had to prioritize her own happiness and that of her children, even if it meant challenging centuries-old traditions.

Living under the same roof as her ex during the divorce proceedings proved to be an emotional crucible. The tension was palpable, each interaction serving as a stark reminder of the impending separation. Yet, through resilience and emotional maturity, Sonia navigated this challenging chapter, laying the groundwork for a smoother transition towards a new beginning.

Twelve years of perseverance, marked by both triumphs and setbacks, led Sonia to a

pivotal realization: her journey could serve as a guiding light for others traversing similar paths. It was this realization that inspired her to become a divorce mentor, a beacon of hope for those grappling with societal stigmas and familial expectations.

As a relationship and divorce mentor, Sonia embodies resilience, empathy, and wisdom, offering invaluable support and guidance to those navigating the turbulent waters of separation. Her journey from adversity to empowerment serves as a testament to the transformative power of courage and self-discovery.

In a society where divorce is often whispered about in hushed tones, Sonia's boldness in confronting taboos and embracing vulnerability paves the way for a more co mp a s si o n at e an d u n d e r st an d i n g community.

Through her advocacy and mentorship, she not only empowers individuals to reclaim their narrative but also fosters a culture of acceptance and support for those embarking on their own journey towards healing and self-actualization.

In a world where societal norms often dictate our choices, Sonia Gupta stands as a beacon of hope—a reminder that there is life after divorce, and that with courage and resilience, we can transcend the confines of judgment and embrace the limitless possibilities of a brighter tomorrow.

www.itsasoniathing.com

After 20 years of turning to alcohol toAustralia deal with any emotion, Esther Nagle discovered Sobriety with a new way to live when she trained to be a yoga teacher. She learned new ways to manage stress, to relax, and to view herself and her life, and chose sobriety after 20 "Recovery Coach for Midlife Misfits years of addiction. Now with over 9 years of sobriety under her belt, she is a recovery who are sick of hangovers, and hazy and embodiment coach for midlife misfits boozy memories, and want to ditch who want to have fun and remember it, the booze so they can remember the helping people to find their own inner powfun they have!" er, and see the gifts sobriety can bring them.

Esther Nagle

Esther fiercely refutes the idea that we must admit powerlessness in order to recover, that we have the power and strength we need, but we might need some support to access it. Esther doesn’t believe that we must always define ourselves by our addiction past, and refuses to call herself an alcoholic, although she freely admits that she used to be. She believes that sobriety is a profound act of self care, and that we only gain when we choose to live sober rather than numbing our lives. Esther loves to be active and is happiest when hiking or running, rocking out at live music events, or spending time with family and friends.

https://redshoesrecovery.com www.facebook.com/redshoesrecovery www.instagram.com/redshoesrecovery www.linkedin.com/in/esthernagle

esther@redshoesrecovery.com

‘Challenge the status quo’

Meet my biz partner Nehaya I am Nehaya; Mum, Fitness Instructor, Wellness Coach and now SMBN Director of Wellbeing.

Supporting others has always come naturally to me whether in my professional or personal life, and so I jumped at the chance to be more invested in the SMBN: I am hopeful that the we of us can make a difference not just for all the single parents, but also for the children being raised facing that same stigma and struggle, which so many are still oblivious to.

I became self employed so that I could develop an individual centred bespoke support package for people struggling with low self worth and motivation: I had seen how the care sector had let down so many families and children by constantly using the same "one size fits all" solution, instead of working with the person's styles and interests to create a more realistic programme and therefore gain better outcomes. I quickly learnt that as great as my experience and expertise in these areas

were, I had no clue on marketing, advertising or what a Business Plan was! It was then whilst networking that I discovered how the words "mum" and "divorced" were toxic in business, being tarnished with the stigma of being lazy, unreliable or wanting a handout. After being in £40k jobs and the top, this was a new low. So when I met Julie and the SMBN, it was a breath of fresh air to be with people who got me.

I am hoping that my role will allow all of the members to feel safe and supported no matter what is going on. Whether it is an emotional or physical battle, we are here to fight it together and not feel alone anymore. My virtual door is always open, waiting with either a hug, a joke, or just a listening ear.

Genny Jones Accounting Trainer and Consultant A bit about me My name is Genny Jones and I am an accountant who can train you to understand the basics of bookkeeping and Accounts so that you can be able to confidently manage your business finances and be confident when you communicate with your accountant or other interested parties. With over 25 years of working in the profession with various accounting firms, businesses, charities and individuals, I have developed my services based on the needs which have identified and from the services I have provided over the years.

How I can help you 

Review of your current bookkeeping systems



Coach you to be confident in understanding the journey from when you buy or sell something to the end products of your profit and loss and balance sheet.



Help you to recruit, support or supervise your bookkeeper.



Training courses via zoom or in person:



Basics of taxation for self employed and businesses



Prepare sales projections and cashflow forecasts.



Pricing of your products or services



Understand your Profit and Loss and Balance sheet

My Charges 1st April 2021 to 31 March 2022

Website: www.gennyjonestraining.com

Free Initial consultation for 45 minutes

Email: infor@gennyjonestraining.com

£30 per hour for one to one sessions

Mobile: 07490830038

1 day training via zoom £147 Additional charges if face to face

Instagram @gennyjonestraining

½ day training vis zoom £75 – Additional charges if face to face

Twitter @gennyjones

Genny Jones – Happiness and Wellbeing Consultant I have been working in the accounting profession for 25 years in various roles. Over the years I have overcome a period of work burn out, depression and low self esteem to developing my own unique happiness and wellbeing sessions aimed at businesses to help employees manage their stress levels so that they can be more productive.

I work to help people not to take themselves too seriously by having time for fun and laughter. I specialise in using laughter and humour to help people cope with everyday issues. My services and sessions are very practical and I share the techniques which have helped me , as well as those learned from others through my continued training.

My services 

Practical Happiness Tool Box with items to help maintain happiness



One to one happiness and wellbeing coaching



Energiser at your event – 15 minutes to get your audience smiling and feel good as demonstrated

during my appearance on Britain’s Got Talent Escape to Happiness Island Sessions: Over the years I have developed this my unique sessions which can be for an hour or half a day and can also be used for team building and employee engagement. I had the pleasure of demonstrating some of my techniques when I appeared on Britain’s Got Talent and even got yeses from the 3 judges and also got listed in the Independent on Sunday happy list 100 of people who go out of their way to share joy with others The sessions are fun packed, interactive and can include: – 

Assessing your current happiness level



Tips on being happier



Visualisation



Laughter Yoga



Singing and Dancing



Arts and Craft



Benefits of the session At the end of the session participants will: 

Have better understanding of the need to have time for fun



Feel good



Be more productive



Have a positive outlook to life



Take with them a simple booklet with practical tips to cope with everyday life



Happiness and Wellbeing Toolbox

Website: www.gennyjonestraining.com Email: info@gennyjonestraining.com

It’s amazing how quickly things can change isn’t it!

Will Guys! I am a great believer in things happening

For 23 years I had been a PE teacher at an inner city

for a reason and I was delighted when they offered

high school in Newcastle Upon Tyne. I had worked at

me redundancy instead.

the same school all that time. I got married, had two

made!

fantastic kids and got divorced, all whilst working there!

Best decision I have ever

I quickly became qualified in ‘Protection’ too so trained all through the summer to be able to advise

Back in 2018 a colleague sent an email to all staff saying he was leaving teaching and was now a

qualified Will Writer. My mum had been going on at me to get my Will in place, worried that my ex husband would potentially benefit from my estate!

So, I replied to the email asking if I could get an appointment booked in. That’s when I realised…this sounded like a great opportunity and something I could work around my kids (then 8 and 11) and my school work!

clients on life insurance, critical illness cover, family income benefit, income protection and building and contents insurance. I absolutely love this too. I take great pride in making sure my clients understand their options and more importantly understand the products.

I guess this is the teacher coming out in me. There is

such a gap in people’s knowledge of all this, as people just think they are trying to be sold something. But actually, if you think about it, these products are here

The Will Guys agreed to take me on and train me up!

I realised very quickly that this was my dream job, I

to protect you and your family if you aren’t able to work or sadly pass away.

loved it! It was such a good feeling knowing I was

One thing the pandemic has taught us is that we

helping people make sure they were protecting their

don’t know what is round the corner and that

loved ones.

anything

Then the pandemic hit. At this point in 2020 I was still a full time teacher and part time Will Writer. I decided

to develop my knowledge further and signed up to do the ‘Estate Planning’ qualification. This is the hardest thing I have ever done, but, 3 tough exams later and 2 months down the road and I passed it! At around the same time I was called in for a meeting with my

headteacher.

They told me they wanted me to

become Head of Sixth Form but wouldn’t get any more money or time to do this! This was a chance to get out!

This was just the push I needed and I made a life

changing decision that I would ask for a financial settlement, leave teaching and go full time with The

can

happen

in

a

blink

of

an

eye.

I feel very blessed and grateful for the job I am doing now.

It’s the best feeling ever knowing that I am

making a difference and helping others.

Australia

Based in Australia but also working in UK online

https://linktr.ee/susiemackie

https://www.facebook.com/BossMum2BossMum/

https://singleparentssupportandadviceservices.co.uk/

Clothing And Fashion Shows | Teri Chance Boutiques

Meet our Wonderful Members

Why choose Carol?

‘Ask anyone who knows me and they will tell you I’m one of the most compassionate, caring people you will ever meet. Me and the team are passionate about helping our clients thrive in whatever business they do.

I’ve always prided myself on being super efficient with a ‘can do’ attitude and nothing is too much trouble.

My clients know, all they need do is ask. I’ve managed offices for large corporations and had a successful EA career as well as mentoring teams of PA’s. I now run my own successful business and have an awesome team who work with me. We are all motivated because we value each others skills. It’s not all about work though, we have a lot of giggles along the way which makes us fun to work with. We understand the importance of giving fantastic customer service and our vast experience lets us know which systems and processes really work for you. Equally important, we are reliable, honest, flexible and fit in with our clients’ needs and everything we do is treated with the highest integrity and confidentiality.’

Exec Pro VA - Virtual Assistants (exec-pro-va.com)

Friend of the SMBN

Hello, my name is Laura and I work in the skin care industry and have been a massage/beauty therapist for over 20 years. I specialise in treating the skin from the inside out, skin health and well being are my passion.

I offer bespoke facials to treat each individuals skin concern, using state of the art technology like CACI non surgical machine and Environ’s DF machine. The facials are from 30 minutes to 2 hours long. Most include a complimentary treatment of your choice, a scalp massage, a foot scrub and massage or a mini manicure- allowing some time for help towards feeling relaxed.

I believe it’s important to take time out for ourselves from our busy schedules, when you feel your best, you look your best too!

As my salon is called Aurora Beauty, inside and out, I offer skin specific supplements too, Jane Iredale cruelty free mineral make up, to treat your skin wholistically, along with a thorough consultation to look at lifestyle and how we can work together to achieve the best results for your skin.

Now recently becoming a SMBN member, I’m very inspired by other members stories and achievements and am so grateful to have been told about this group and be motivated by their support and efforts, wish I’d have found SMBN earlier! I’ll be sure to spread the word! One day I’d love to open a school teaching facials and massage.

Laura, Aurora Beauty 07988805482

FEEDBACK Julie works tirelessly to support and connect single mums in business. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and if there’s a way to get something done, she’ll find it.

As a single parent, I have found this group very inspiring and useful. We all encourage and support each other . “Julie Hawkins just want to say thank you very much for this mornings SMBN Members Only Weekly Open House Meet-up. I really treasure these sessions, and today I had an amazing light bulb moment. At a time when I am trying to develop my business, thanks you for helping me see clarity. I am now working on your wonderful suggestions and tips.” I recommend the SMBN because I have benefitted a great deal since I became a member and know many others who have also benefitted.

Genny Jones – https://www.gennyjonestraining.com/

Absolutely love being part of this Network and their meet ups. Such an inspiring, positive and wonderful bunch of women. Julie is amazing for setting this up and is always petitioning for the best for all women, mums and parents xxx Nehaya Zitawi https://www.hiyashealing.com/

Julie works tirelessly to support and connect Single Mums Business Network. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and if there’s a way to get something done, she’ll find it.

Kirsty Tyler https://www.wyefieldwm.co.uk/kirsty.html

I am really grateful for this award I have wine and absolutely so blessed to be a part of Single Mums business network and also honoured to be a county coordinator for Surrey.

Thank you to the founder Julie Hawkins for your heart and passion and all you give back to us Single Mums in Business.

Lidia Peto – Holistic Fitness and Coaching Absolutely can not thank this network enough, its more than networking and more than business!! Today I find myself totally overwhelmed by the support from Julie in helping my family.

Kirstie I am so grateful to have found the Single Mums Business Network. They have been an immense support through my transition to full-time business owner. Julie Hawkins the founder is so passionate, encouraging and supportive, I honestly would not be doing what I am doing today if it wasn’t for her and the lovely ladies in SMBN. Shannon Andrews – The Hand Lettering Studio

Ruth Talbot Founder Single Parent Rights Campaign The Juggle: Single Parent Employment and Career Progression - New Research by Single Parent Rights New research from the Single Parent Rights campaign has found that single parents face multiple barriers to entering paid employment and progressing within their chosen career.

The research - which surveyed over 1000 single parents last year – found single parents reported a lack of affordable childcare, a lack of flexible work and a lack of understanding from employers around the reality of being a single parent. This impacted their ability to find work and to progress within their chosen career.

Thirty five percent of single parents reported working at a level not equivalent to their skills and experience. This rose to 50% of part-time single parent employees. The research also found that those working at an inappropriate level were more likely to leave their role highlighting how critical it is to ensure single parents are enabled to work at an appropriate level.

Almost 90% of single parents reported that more flexible work and affordable childcare would support them to enter the workforce and 62% and 54% respectively reported these factors would enable them to progress in their career. Whilst working from home has increased since Covid, the research found that this was not sufficient in addressing the barriers single parents face when entering and progressing within the workforce.

The research highlighted that single parents of all income levels are affected by the childcare crisis in the UK. Those on Universal Credit struggle due to the limit for childcare support being only up to £646 per month for one child, whilst the average cost of a full-time nursery place is now over £1,000 per month[1].

Single parents on middle and high incomes also struggle given the tax and childcare system are designed for two-parent households. For example, if a single parent earned £60,000 annually, they would be over £6,100 worse off every year compared with a couple where each earns £30,000 a year due to taxes and child benefit rules.[2] Furthermore, the single parent would typically require more childcare than the couple given the lack of a second parent to share childcare with and often not two sets of family to rely on.

Costs are often even higher in the school holidays. As Janet said, “Childcare costs in the school holidays are just over £90 per day for both of my children combined, which is more than I earn in a day.”

Ruth Talbot, Director of Single Parent Rights, stated, “Single parents already face extensive challenges in raising their children single handedly, that they face additional challenges to enter the workforce and progress within it reflects just how widespread discrimination towards single parents is. The institutional barriers faced by single parents, including a lack of flexible roles, a lack of affordable childcare and a lack of understanding of the reality facing single parents must be addressed. This is why we are campaigning for single parents to be added to the Equality Act, so this kind of discrimination can be directly challenged and stamped out, enabling all single parent families to flourish.”

PLEASE VISIT RUTH’S WEBSITE FOR FULL REPORTS:

www.singleparentrights.org/employment-research Ruth Talbot Founder Single Parent Rights Campaign Follow us on twitter @SglParentRights Follow us on Instagram: @SingleParentRights

I am Nicola Booth, a 34 year old support, one for emotional support single mum raising a 10 year old girl. and one for our first charity shop in Barnsley. Our aim is to support single parents to gain access to services I created Single Parents Support and which normally have long waiting lists Advice Services (running under a or costs involved so they are unable to different name at that time) in access them, for example counselling.

October 2012 when I became a single This now includes emergency food mother, sat at home on an evening parcels and energy top ups. We also thinking there must be other single Run surplus food projects all over the parents in this situation, so a local UK to help beat food waste and feed Facebook page was made and gone our families in need. from strength to strength over this time to a now fully registered charity! We are proud to say that we are ALL volunteers in SPSAS, even me! All our services are FREE and we run on SPSAS is a charity for single parents all grants and donations. over the UK. We aim to combat isolation and loneliness through uniting as a community. We have two main Facebook groups and sub groups to help members with mental health support, domestic abuse support, parents with children with additional needs and more! We also have Facebook pages, one for the organisation, one for free legal SPSAS - Single Parents Support and Advice Services, Lone Parent

www.coopersphotographic.co.uk

www.coopersphotographic.co.uk

We had SUCH an INCREDIBLE night with our children at the 2023 SMBN Awards at the Old Court Hotel in Ross-on-Wye. To share a room with so many incredible, hard-working women who have all felt pain to the core was a unique experience that none of us will ever forget. Please enjoy the pictures, with thanks to Cooper’s Photographic www.coopersphotographic.co.uk

We Conquer, We Survive, We Thrive

THANK YOU COOPER’S PHOTOGRAPIC, FOR CAPTURING THESE VERY SPECIAL MOMENTS

We Conquer, We Survive, We Thrive

Hello. My name is Cheryl, otherwise known as Ms. T and the Owner, Founder & Creative Director of Chapter 50; a Consultancy and Brand that combines Business, Fashion and Art to advocate the positive narrative of living with, and beyond, Breast Cancer whilst working towards the eradication of barriers that exist in Breast Healthcare.

Breast Cancer - My Beautiful Thorn

‘Exercise ‘Live is life Life, and Laugh Movement Often, Let is Motivation’ Go, Have Fun, Be Feisty and Breast healthcare is an important aspect of women's health. Unfortunately, there Confident are still many barriers that prevent women from accessing the care they need. As and most an advocate of positive change, it is important to raise awareness of these issues of and work towards breaking down these barriers. all

Be One of the biggest barriers to breast healthcare is lack of access. Many women, Fit Forever’. particularly those from underrepresented and marginalised groups or from rural or low-income areas do not have, or receive limited access to, the necessary healthcare facilities or resources. This is why it is important for me to support organisations and initiatives that work towards increasing access to breast healthcare for ALL women.

Another barrier is the lack of understanding and awareness. Many women still do not know the importance of regular breast exams or how to perform selfexams. It is crucial to provide these resources to women so they can take charge of their own breast healthcare and detect any issues early on.

Finally, the stigma surrounding breast cancer, cultural and societal barriers can prevent women from seeking breast healthcare. It is important to create a safe and supportive environment in which women feel comfortable discussing and seeking breast healthcare.

By increasing access, providing the necessary tools and resources, and creating a supportive environment, a positive impact can be made on women's health and well-being. please help us spread the word about the #workingwithcancer pledge in your personal and professional network -www.workingwithcancerpledge.com

www.cfiftee.com

Whatever joy there is in this world, All comes from desiring others to be happy, And whatever suffering there is in this world,

All comes from desiring myself to be happy. […]

- Master Shantideva

Please visit our website, singlemumsbusinessnetwork.com to see how you can support or join us

where SOLO no longer means SOLO