Inspiring Enterprise project officers Erica Sandford and Claire Dawson, both with Surrey Community Action, have been working with Sophie Foote, Manager of the County Care Community Skills Project, to assist adults with learning difficulties to launch a successful business making and selling sweet bags. They have produced a business model for the group and have helped them to develop essential business skills such as money handling and customer service, as well as developing confidence.
The Candy Care Enterprise group now orders stock, makes up and sells the product
in nine Addlestone High Street shops – clearing £150 in the first month alone.
They also offer party packs so people can send in an order by email and it can be made up ready for collection. These can be for children’s parties, baby showers, weddings, and birthday or engagement parties.
Sophie said: “I cannot praise Erica and Claire highly enough. Their support and advice has been invaluable in helping us run this programme which so encourages our participants and allows them to progress and thrive.”
The Candy Care Enterprise group will be working with Claire to go through their takings and help make keeping records as easy as possible. They are also going to be expanding the Candy Care idea and adding in a second enterprise – hopefully there will be more exciting news soon