A showcase of self-employment

Former clients who have swapped a life on benefits to run their own successful business showed their support for Working Links by taking part in the official opening of our new office in Hackney.

 

A raft of entrepreneurs including caterers, a jewellery maker, masseuse, leather worker and photographer attended the launch at our new office in Hoxton. They showcased their work and explained to others how we have helped them to succeed.

 

Photographer, Ken Flaherty, was one of those entrepreneurs that attended the event. He first came to us aged 50 and two years on his photography business – Asset Digital - is flourishing. His work is known across the advertising world and he has recently been awarded a major campaign contract with Johnson & Johnson. Ken explained:

 

“At 50 I really had hung up my hat. I had a failed business behind me and I really didn’t think I had a future in the workplace. But my adviser at Working Links, Peng Ong, gave me the support and encouragement I needed to help me find a new direction. I haven’t looked back.”

 

He is just one of 176 people across London to have been helped by us to launch their own business.

Working Links self employment team

 

Peng Ong, of the self-employment service, said: “With the launch of the Business Service, the Business Network and the opening of our new office, we very much look forward to working further with the people of Hackney and helping even more people to turn their lives around.”

 

The event was also attended by representatives from Hackney Council, The Princes Trust, Business Link and Broadway Market. Speaking at the official launch of the office, Broadway Market Manager, Louise Brewood, said: “We are pleased to be working closely with Working Links in Hackney. Working Links offers a different approach as it helps people find the motivation within themselves to make positive changes in their life. It encourages them to turn their lives around and move forward. The team gives people the chance to find out whether self-employment is right for them before they make that jump. In the six years I have worked with the team here in Hackney I have seen many, many people benefit from the help of Working Links.”