Paul beats the odds to make a fresh start

Setting up his own business was simply a pipe dream to Paul Jarrett. Ill health had forced him to give up his long held job as a gamekeeper and he was told he was unlikely he would ever work again.

But he is now celebrating success. He has not only beaten the odds to overcome his health barriers but has started his own taxidermist business - and he has just received news of his first international sale.

When he was first told he was unlikely to return to work, Paul refused to accept the news. He knew that while it would be difficult to find suitable work he had to find something he could do at home to keep him occupied.

Paul, who lives in Grantham, was referred to us by Jobcentre Plus and his personal consultant, Julie Relf, was able to help him meet his goals.

At this point he had an interest in taxidermy and wanted to learn more but did not have the confidence or the contacts needed to begin the process. Paul, 52, required support to turn his hobby into a part-time job. We provided him with the support needed and assisted him by arranging funding towards a specialist training course.

His consultant, Julie, ensured that his benefits would be protected while he set up his new business and arranged for a local business adviser to provide assistance marketing his business. In just a short time he has already made his mark. He has plans in the pipeline to exhibit his work at country fairs and he has just learned that he has been successful in gaining his first commission for a customer in America.