Having already created a website for his dad’s architect business, and one for a family friend’s charity, when Nathan joined DurhamEnable he was keen to pursue self‑employment, ideally working from home, with perhaps a part‑time job in IT.
Nathan followed the 5 stages of Supported Employment model when he started receiving support from DurhamEnable: Client Engagement, Vocational Profiling, Job Finding, Employer Engagement, and On the Job Support, all the elements designed to support him to secure and sustain meaningful employment.
After an introduction from DurhamEnable Nathan also worked closely with Hayley Campbell a Business Advisor from Durham Start-Ups. They developed a business idea called INBOX WEBSITES, a web studio making and supporting simple and manageable websites for small business and charities.
As Nathan finds verbal interaction and in‑person meetings very challenging, he advertises his services exclusively online and communicates using email or text, removing the need for verbal interaction and in‑person meetings.
Nathan is now registered as self-employed. He has arranged his employer insurance and is currently advertising on Yell.com. Durham Start-Ups have also produced a page for him within their referral directory.
DurhamEnable Job Coach Heather Armstrong says:
Nathan’s journey with DurhamEnable has been inspiring. He has grown in confidence, embraced challenges with resilience, and consistently shown a determination to move forward.
Heather added,
We’re thrilled to celebrate the launch of his new small business, INBOX WEBSITES. Nathan is full of creative ideas and is already exploring fresh ways to expand and market his services. His passion and drive continue to shine. Nathan is not resting on his laurels either. We are currently exploring and completing relevant online training including small business management and Diploma in Business Administration courses. He is extremely proactive and always willing to learn and develop his skills.
About his time with DurhamEnable, Nathan commented:
I feel I have gained a lot of confidence since working with DurhamEnable, it has helped me set up my business, gain exposure to different places like the Louisa Centre and County Hall and gain confidence in using online meeting platforms. I’m really happy with the outcome of my time with this service.
If you’re also looking for to find a job that works for you, get in touch with DurhamEnable today.
