Single Mums Business Magazine - Winter Solstice Edition 2024

ISSN 2752-9517 (online)

WINTER SOLSTICE EDITION 2024

£4.90

INSPIRATION INFORMATION

DETERMINATION Cover Girl

Norma Cassius Exploitative practices and MLM

Ethics, Law And True Leadership

Signposting for Men

Access to Finance Access to Work Access to Homes

Raising Awareness of and Working to Remove Barriers to Work, Homes and Finance Supporting our Community with Work, Enterprise and Wellbeing

2024

What a year it has been!

Since 2019 we have been publicly fighting for the removal of barriers to work, homes and finance, and we have seen so many positive changes, hence the front cover now talking about ‘access’ to work, homes and finance, rather than barriers! Positive change has happened and is still happening, and we are here to signpost, support and suggest how we can continue to grow and continue to remove the barriers that remain.

We have seen a change in Government; the HM Treasury has announced a new financial inclusion committee that will bring together stakeholders to inform a new financial inclusion strategy; the Renters’ Rights Bill passed through first, second and committee stage readings, with it’s third (Commons) reading scheduled for January. Purple Shoots launched the "Friendly Fund" in the House of Lords; new rights were introduced as the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill introduced new flexible working rights from day 1 of employment, and of course we had our very own celebration event in the House of Commons in October, which offered fresh optimism for single mums in business.

We have some fantastic events planned for 2025 and look forward to seeing you, or meeting you, if we have not yet met!

WORK ~ ENTE SOLO but no longer SOLO

The Single Mums Business Magazine is a publication that showcases SMBN members & 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 has pained me to see our Governments enforce sanctions that hurt primary carers, before tackling the root cause and offering a real solution, and I pray that they will soon 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 and encourage flexible working requests, 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. These parents are fighting, without an adequate support network, to fend for themselves whilst facing stigma, misconceptions, home insecurity, charges for adversity and rife hate speech on-line and in social settings.

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.

The stigma remains rife; bias permeates society as our single parent status, especially that of single mothers, brings assumption of poor choices and poor work ethic. Single mums 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 heart-breaking 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. 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.

ERPRISE ~ WELLBEING

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 , many who leave employment and recommence the work search in September as the support just isn’t adequate, and 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 years with nothing at the end of it, simply because of a lack of deposit or because of previous adversity. Adversity is the most punished crime, with the longest sentence.

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.

At the SMBN we celebrate those who are ethical and humane when it comes to enabling others to work, live in a secure home with pets and pictures, and access rainy day finance; these true leaders do not need the law to tell them what to do, they know what is right, and their actions support the economy whilst reducing strain on the NHS.

It has been a joy to share my story to help raise awareness of the misconceptions around adverse life events and consequential debt. I have enjoyed a front row seat as organisations around me have worked so very hard to remove the barriers to finance that exist, to put an end to excluding those who need a hand back up the most. With the new financial inclusion taskforce now in place, there is hope for us all. Do not quit!

COVER GIRL

Norma Cassius

Norma Cassius is a money management and mental health consultant with over twenty years of experience in the financial sector and twenty years as a qualified psychotherapist.

Norma combines her expertise to offer a unique, psychologybased approach to financial wellness helping women build a healthier relationship with money.

She is the founder of Think Like A Bank, a ground breaking money management program, and author of a self-help book of the same name. Norma has empowered hundreds of individuals to achieve financial independence by addressing the psychological aspects of money.

She remains committed to making her services accessible, recognising firsthand how challenging it can be to afford support.

“As a single mother of three, I couldn’t afford therapy when I needed it the most. That experience shaped my mission to provide affordable, impactful resources and services.”

Her latest project, the ‘Mental Wealth’ Journal, provides an affordable tool to help people process their thoughts, and emotions, from the comfort of home. “If I had a resource like this journal - one that offered clarity around both finances and mental wellbeing, I would have stretched every penny to save for it, knowing the value it could bring,” she reflects.

Financial empowerment is at the heart of Norma’s work. Whether through money management consultations, financial therapy, her book or her new journal.

Norma’s approach ensures transformational change. Her journey from single mother to a seven-figure businesswoman drives her mission: to empower a million women financially and mentally by 2034.

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.

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)

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.

Email: info@thinklikeabank.co.uk Web: www.normacassius.com

Buy ‘Think Like a Bank’ on Amazon

Our traditional western culture means that most of our elderly are cared for outside of the family home, a sad yet normal way of life, but most care roles require shifts outside of available childcare.

I personally would have been very happy to take care of our elderly if my daughter could have played under the same roof, and we know that young people bring joy to forgotten grandparents.

I cannot help but reflect on my years in Tenerife, where 'normal' was three generations under one roof, solving both childcare and care challenges, and crucially ensuring that we are always surrounded by loved ones.

It makes economic sense is so many ways; if we cannot [will not] change our culture, we must at least revisit the way we are always so insistent on separating what is professional and what is personal. We just need to be a bit more human

One room, one creche, one childminder, per care home, will enable thousands more primary carers to fulfil these roles that care homes are currently struggling to recruit for.

Living with dependents is a beautiful time of life, and we are truly blessed, but, when you do not have a partner at home, to enable you to head out to the gym for an hour, you find it even harder to take care of your physical and mental health. It is hard enough to find enough childcare to cover the employment or business hours you need to work, you cannot fit the gym into this window too.

Yes we can all workout from home, but we lack space, equipment, focus, and the outlet that comes with leaving the house and heading to the gym. There is a reason that gyms as a business succeed v home workouts. It’s an essential outlet where you are inspired, focused and energised.

Gyms do not only need creches, but also childcare rooms, as until you have teenagers you cannot leave the house without them unless you have incredible community, family or partner support, which so many simply do not have.

Just another unnecessarily ultimate strain on the NHS, for mental and physical health reasons.

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.

ISSN 2752-9517 (online)

Future Leaders Voices that matter

Happy Homes

Being a child of a single mother, I have been looked down on sometimes by other children and treated like it’s not normal. There are so many women who are single mums for different reasons, which I learnt from being part of the SMBN and it helped me. We all support each other no matter what and get it. It surprises me now how people still have this idea that there is something bad about single mums. The Government should be doing more and schools too, because people shouldn't be being treated wrong because of it.

For me, it hasn’t been a negative, but a strength because it means I have a bigger family now and so much support around me and have been helped by different people in different ways. I have been inspired and helped to start my own little business this year called Tia’s Textiles, where I use upcycled materials to create washbags, totes, cushions and other items; this helps to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and giving something another purpose, as well as using my love of sewing to bring happiness to others.

The Single Mums Business Magazine isn’t only for members! It’s for our children too!

To be able to share your voice is important, and to learn to share it even more so! This month we have an article

by Tia Zitawi-Hutchinson

It's very hard to pinpoint what I want changed or think needs to improve because there are so many issues that have been ignored for so long. I want the Government and the media to be more honest and not be allowed to hide things: They are meant to be working for us to help us, but it doesn’t seem like they are. Money needs to go back into doctors, hospitals, police and all of these services, because people need to feel safe and well. I think schools should be more flexible in how they teach and not just be doing everything the same because children learn in different ways, and it can be hard for us to all understand things in the same way.

Last month, I was able to go to the House of Commons with the SMBN and this was really eye opening and motivating to recognise how much people are trying to do. I heard an MP and Baronesses speaking about their story and it made me feel like anyone can make a difference if they really care enough and want to.

Thank you Tia, for sharing your voice, and for further inspiring our work.

You are part of the SMBN family x and we will do our best always.

The BOOK – Single Mum & 21st Century Peasant – Breaking out of Benefits Jail On Tuesday 29.11.22 I lost my father, without any end of life care, proper diagnosis, much needed outpatient appointments, or his end of life wishes properly recorded on his medical notes, due a broken, stretched system. I had already written this book, which talks about flexible working and roles in the NHS, but published it in December 2022, as a tribute to my father, who should still be my rock today.

By helping you break away from benefits, and by educating Stakeholders on how to remove barriers to work, homes and finance. We can all create a better and safer future, for us, and our families. .

This book is packed with signposting, information and advice.

Contents Making Peace with Benefits Flexible Working Multi-Level Marketing (the danger of) & Networking Ethical, Impactful Business Business in a Digital World – Setting up your shop window and Minimum Income Floor 6. Business Departments and Transferable Skills 7. Mindset and Gratitude 8. Peer Pressure – Anti Growth 9. Social Conditioning – Expectations Hurt Us 10. Forgiving Ignorance and Walking Away 11. University 12. Support and Information 13. Embracing Isolation & Loneliness 14. Barriers 15. Financial Education 16. Responsible Finance 17. Credit Scoring, Sharks, Fat Cats, Tax Evasion 18. Social Impact Review 2019 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.

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You can buy the book here

ISBN-13 : 979-8871698921

LET’S GET STARTED

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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.

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

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 ex-husband 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 of the tunnel.

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

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)

Supporting Individuals with ADHD/ASD/Executive Function Challenges since 2018

SMBN Co-Director 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

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

https://www.etsy.com/shop/yellowtigerstore

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

Members and Friends of the SMBN – Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC]

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

The 2025 SMBN National Awards Will be held on Saturday 22nd November 2025

Sponsor an Award We Conquer, We Survive, We Thrive

We had a wonderful day at the 2024 SMBN Presentation and Celebration Event in the Palace of Westminster.

www.coopersphotographic.co.uk

www.coopersphotographic.co.uk

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

For National Single Parents Day 2025, which is Friday 21st March, we are collaborating with other Single Parent Organisations to raise awareness of what is out there for you! Meanwhile, over the next few pages (and on our website) you will see details of just a few other organisations, for single parents, single mums, and those who are just for men...

Michael Ray - Gender Equality, Equality, Parenting

ADVERTISE WITH US

Single Mums Business Network [SMBN CIC] Helping Single Mums with Work, Enterprise and Wellbeing

We Conquer, We Survive, We Thrive

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

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