Date: 23 March 2009
Karen Extance has seen her new business
running a holistic therapy centre in Lincoln do so well that she is
now branching out into Children’s Butterfly Parties after
only three months of trading. But this rapid success is teamed
by a greater personal barrier that Karen has had to cross before
her dream could come true.
Karen had been out of work for some time
following an operation. Living on health related benefits, the
fully qualified therapist heard about Working Links and the support
they offer in helping people return to work. Karen had set her
goals on running her own holistic health centre but needed support
to make this happen.
Working Links are currently working in
partnership with TNG on Pathways to Work, a Government funded
programme that runs across Lincolnshire supporting people on health
related benefits on their journey back into work.
Karen met with Consultant Deborah Gale and
together they put together a return to work plan. Deborah was also
able to point Karen in the right direction for help with funding
and putting together a business plan.
And in July 2008 the work paid off when Karen
opened The Ark of Healing at 7A The Parade, Cherry Willingham,
Lincoln. In a relatively short space of time Karen has seen her
business grow to incorporate Children’s Butterfly parties. The
popular parties, aimed at girls aged eight years upwards, take
place in the Arks ‘Butterfly Lounge’ and include nail and henna
art, skin care and jewellery making.
Karen comments; “I am thrilled at the
popularity of the treatments available at the salon and how busy I
have become. The Children’s Butterfly parties are beginning to book
up and I can see the Ark going from strength to strength. I am so
grateful for the support I have received from Working Links in
helping me fulfil my ambition.”
To find out more about The Ark of Healing call
Karen on 07926 386 055, call in at 7A The Parade, Cherry
Willingham, Lincoln or visit http://www.thearkofhealing.com