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When I set-up the Single Mums Business Network in 2019 – it was intended to be exclusively for single mums – not to exclude anybody but just to do what it said on the tin, support single mums in business. I was quite literally blown away when a member of my network asked if she could join, despite not being a single mum. She just wanted to support the network, without any gain; and so the ‘Friends of the SMBN’ was born. ‘Friends’ get exposure to their businesses on the website and mag, but are otherwise essentially ‘silent partners’! And I / we appreciate them all. Infact there are no words to say how much I appreciate them and their support. But on top of that, in the last year, one friend of the SMBN has really stood out! we met on Twitter! and immediately realised that we were both all about supporting each other and collaboration rather than competition. She came to the National SMBN Conference from Liverpool (7 hour round trip and some!), and then she just kept going. Her joining as a member was more than enough, but she consistently signposted, retweeted, shared, promoted, clapped, applauded, celebrated, collaborated, and encouraged, and quite literally blew my mind all over again, and she introduced me to the wonderful Sarah Harvey who is the Merseyside Coordinator for the SMBN. There was no way that I was going to let this go unrecognised, so without having to be nominated or nominate herself, I awarded Marie Hall, of Empowerment House. Best friend of the SMBN for 2020. I hope she puts that award somewhere she always sees it, so if ever she’s having a tough day or doubting what a difference she makes, she remembers how incredible, appreciated and loved she is. It was a no brainer to invite her to be my partner for the ‘Find Your Power Event 2021’. Ladies, we find power in each other, we are more powerful to make positive change when we work together. She is now a lifetime honorary friend of the SMBN, and truly an angel, who deserves her wings. Thank you Marie, and thank you Empowerment House 🙏💞
End note. When life starts you off with hard knocks, you can either be a lover or a fighter. Please be a lover. Kindness is the greatest wealth you will ever know. Jules x
Empowerment House Website
SMBN 2020 Award Winners
Welcome New Member, Rachel Cockburn, of Yellow Tiger Design, to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Rachel, owner of Yellow Tiger Design, to the Single Mums Business Network. Yellow Tiger is a one-woman creative practice offering illustration, repeat pattern and hand-lettering services. Here is what Rachel says; “I’m Rachel, the illustrator behind Yellow Tiger. Collaborating with clients to create purpose-driven projects is what I love to…
Webinar #IWD2023 #EmbraceEquity – My talk on Barriers to Finance, and how Barriers to Work, Homes and Finance are interlinked..
On Wednesday 8th March I co-hosted a webinar with SWIG finance. Speakers included:
Welcome New Member, Michele Ambara – M&M Events Inspiration
I am delighted to welcome Michele, to the SMBN; here is a little about Michele: ‘I am a single mother of two children, and I am self-employed. Before I tell you about what I do now, I’ll tell you a bit about my background…
Welcome New Member, Janine Jorsling, Mobile Massage Therapist and Candle Maker, at Janine Marie London
I am delighted to welcome Janine to the Single Mums Business Network, our first new member of 2023! By joining the SMBN Janine is no longer ‘SOLO’, with ongoing exposure in our quarterly magazine, regular networking with other Single Mums in Business plus additional member benefits, Janine is not only helping herself but she is…
Welcome New Member, Nina Farr, to the Single Mums Business Network. Nina is a Leadership Coach & Mentor, TEDx Speaker, Author of ‘I am the Parent Who Stayed’, and there’s more! Read on…
I am delighted to welcome Nina Farr, to the Single Mums Business Network, aka SMBN. You really need to visit Nina’s website to fully appreciate the scope of her offerings, from coaching, HR Support, her own Cluster Mothers Membership group, her book, and much more. Here is what Nina says;
Welcome Nina Bambrey, Parenting Coach, Author and Researcher, to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Nina back to the SMBN. Nina is a parenting coach, author and researcher..
Member Impact Story – Claire Harris – Pets2Places
Thank you to SMBN member Claire for submitting our first official Impact Story! The Single Mums Business Network [SMBN] was set-up in 2019 to help single mums with work, enterprise and wellbeing, with a strong focus on positive mental health and economic impact…
Welcome New Member, Claire Standen, Coach, Speaker and Activist, to the SMBN
Welcome New Member, Claire Standen, Coach, Speaker and Activist, to the SMBN. Claire is a coach and therapist helping entrepreneurial and professional women break the generational curse of ‘never enough’ so that they can build businesses, relationships and family lives that light them up. Read more..
The BOOK – Single Mum & 21st Century Peasant – Breaking out of Benefits Jail.
The BOOK – Single Mums & 21st Century Peasant – Breaking out of Benefits Jail, is coming soon! I have held a number of webinars to address barriers to adequate work, homes and finance, and consequential benefits. This book shares my own journey as a Single Mum and self-proclaimed 21st Century Peasant, as I share…
Sarah Harvey, SMBN Member and Students in Mind Founder, delivers Wellbeing Workshop to Weightmans Solicitors.
Sarah Harvey, SMBN Member and Students in Mind Founder, delivers Wellbeing Workshop to Weightmans Solicitors. By engaging with one of the Students in Mind workshops, Weightmans showed themselves to be a forward-thinking employer when it comes to educating their staff…
Welcome New Member to the SMBN – Debra Elsmore, Owner at Balance, Pilates and Wellbeing
I am delighted to welcome Debra to the Single Mums Business Network. Deb and I have been connected via networking for a number of years and it is always very heart-warming when somebody who has known me for years and I consider a friend, sees the value in formal membership of the SMBN. Debra is…
Welcome New Member – Carmen Romero, Founder and Director – Impact Creation Lab Ltd
I am delighted to welcome Carmen Romero as a member of the Single Mums Business Network. Carmen has worked for more than a decade in the space of impact investing, UHNWI, family offices and social enterprises as well as with start-ups at various stages of their growth from ideation all the way to pre-seed or…
SMBN Webinar – Benefits, Minimum Income Floor, MLM, Business, Flexible Working Agencies, Wellbeing, Finance, Support. – AUDIO only for privacy of attendees.
I’ve had to share this as an audio rather than video for privacy reasons as I failed to remove videos of attendees, but please listen, and do what you can for positive advancement.
Welcome New SMBN Member – Danielle Baron – Integrative Therapist | Life/Career Coach | Experienced Teacher and AHT 10+ Years | 11 + Entrance Exam Tutor | Seen in Daily Mail, Prima, Grammar School Insider, Brainz Magazine… and there’s more!
I am delighted to welcome Danielle Baron to the Single Mums Business Network! Danielle catalyses children and adults to rise like a phoenix from the flames 🔥 and to reach their optimum potential. She is an entrepreneur, inspiring 11+ and 7+ entrance exams tutor, rapid transformational therapist®, business coach for overachievers, a life coach for…
Right darlings! The Gov have just made a ‘bit’ of a ‘massive’ poop in judging you instead of tackling the root cause and keeping you safe in the interim, so, let me see what I can do to help… Webinar/ Workshop – Breaking Free from Benefits – Flexible Working and Self-Employment – Free of Charge – all welcome regardless of reason for needing support.
I cannot express enough how disappointed I am in the Chancellor’s attitude towards the most vulnerable members of society in receipt of universal credit. I am all for everybody working, and I am all for growing the economy, but punishing the most vulnerable, instead of tackling the root cause, epitomises what is wrong with our…
Single Mums Business Magazine Autumn Edition 2022 OUT NOW
Single Mums Business Magazine Autumn Edition 2022 OUT NOW
Our new Prime Minister Liz Truss, her knowledge of the Single Mums Business Network, aka SMBN, and our renewed hope for access to childcare, homes, financial independence and dignity.
With every change comes renewed hope, renewed hope for action, change, and a better future for us all, and whatever your political views, this is todays’ reality, and this is where less drama, and more productive focus is needed.
ITV interviewed me last week; they refused to use my interview, as I refused to deviate from my truth. We need to be clear about who receives benefits, instead of fuelling the stigma..
ITV interviewed me last week; they refused to use my interview, as I refused to deviate from my truth. We need to be clear about who receives benefits, instead of fuelling the stigma..
Welcome New Member – Rachael Namiiro – Founder of Billdup (use bill payments to improve your credit score), to the SMBN!
I am delighted to welcome Rachael Namiiro to the Single Mums Business Network. Rachael founded Billdup, following her own experience post separation, of the reality of an absent credit score if your bills are paid via your partner. Here is what she says;
SMBN Awards 2022 – Headline Sponsor Announced! Thank you to the Charity Learning Consortium, The #1 online training provider for charities!
We are delighted to announce that the Headline Sponsor for the 2022 SMBN Awards is the Charity Learning Consortium. The CEO Martin Baker really understands the impact of helping others, from affordable eLearning to flexible working, he has truly created a company to be proud of.
I’ve had a busy 24hrs! I have spoken to the PM; challenged, listened, delivered our message, presented the barriers, the solutions, the pain, and I am beyond satisfied that I have done all that I can; here’s what was said…
Naturally we do not know whether it will be Rishi or Liz that resides at No.10 next month, but I can hand on heart, in the knowledge that it will be one of them, say that I have spoken to our PM! Quite literally for YEARS, I have been writing to Downing Street, Royalty, MP’s,…
Happy 9th Birthday to KIH Products. The Company that led to the SMBN…
I am SO grateful for my journey; from identifying a gap in the market and supplying KIH Beds to professional practitioners and the #spa industry worldwide. I met a need despite being unable to meet my own needs…
Award Entries, Membership and More…
smbn – Award Entries, Membership and More… are you up to date? it’s a beautiful day, why not have a browse 💞
Friend of the SMBN Carol McIntyre – Founder of Exec Pro VA – A Welcome Renewal!
It is always lovely to welcome a new member or new friend to the SMBN, but it’s something extra special when a member has a break then re-joins, or renews their membership. It’s a real pleasure to extend a warm second welcome to Carol McIntyre, after her confirmation of renewal of being part of what…
It’s out! Single Mums Business Magazine – Summer Edition 2022
It’s out! Single Mums Business Magazine – Summer Edition 2022
Welcome ‘Friend of the SMBN’, Caron Kipping, Divorce & Separation Coach
Welcome ‘Friend of the SMBN’, Caron Kipping, Divorce & Separation Coach Caron is a Divorce Coach specialising in supporting people in abusive and controlling relationships or dealing with post-separational abuse.
Welcome ‘Friend of the SMBN’, Katie Phillips, The School of Self Love
The Empowered Feminine Approach To Dating When it comes to preparing midlife single women to be ready to receive their ‘one’ and enjoy an empowered relationship – our friend Katie Phillips is your gal. Katie is a master at guiding women through the inner work that’s required to experience a shift in their external circumstances.…
With gratitude to 2022 SMBN Awards Prize Sponsor – Something Wicked! Luxury High End Leather and Vegan Leather Lingerie… £250 voucher..
I am very grateful to our friends at Something Wicked, @wearewickeduk for being so generous as to offer a £250 voucher to one of our award winners this year! It is such a special night to treat the ladies who rarely come first, and we appreciate all the help we can get to make that…
Aaaaand, we’re off!
Aaaaand, we’re off! The SMBN Single Mums Business Network 2022 Awards are officially OPEN for entries! Read more…
Cost of Living Crisis – How the Government are trying to step up.
I say step-up, and not help, because they should have stepped up a long time ago. I have always said that the cost of living outweighs inflation and that we have, for our entire lives, trusted that our tax is used for the right reasons, but it has been like observing a solicitor who has…
Welcome New Member – Michelle Forster, Founder of Tricord Solutions HR, to the SMBN
I am delighted to welcome Michelle Forster, Founder of Tricord Solutions HR, to the Single Mums Business Network. Here is what Michelle says:
Categories announced for the SMBN 2022 Awards…
Categories this year are: Campaigner of the Year Acing Adversity Award Super Start-up Community Champion Excellence in Customer Care Employer of the Year SMBN Champion of the Year Best Corporate Responsibility Best Innovation Award Best Business Marketing Read more…
Welcome ‘Friend of the SMBN’, Charlotte Webb, Principle at Castle Green Financial Planning
I am delighted to officially welcome Charlotte to the SMBN as a ‘Friend’, being a friend of the SMBN means that you benefit from the exposure on-line and in print whilst supporting our quest to make work work as single parents. We appreciate every friend of the SMBN as, with their actions, they demonstrate they…
Single Mums Business Magazine – Spring Edition 2022 Out Now!
Single Mums Business Magazine – Spring Edition 2022 Out Now!
Ruth and the Single Parent Rights Team are working hard to bring single parents employment experiences to politicians..
I have a lot of respect for the work Ruth does, to date alone and unfunded, to ensure that we do not face various discriminations due to our status. As I discuss barriers I realise that as a protected characteristic we would be better placed to fight for equal opportunities to home ownership, work, business…
Small Business – Big Difference! In this interview with Alison Cork we discuss how she champions female entrepreneurs, is passionate about healthy living, and how she has now launched a Viral Campaign for the UK Small Business Community to Donate £1 each to support Ukraine Appeal..
Just wow! You know that question that often pops up – if you could choose just a few people to have dinner with, well, Alison Cork would certainly be on my list, she is an absolute powerhouse, doer, thinker, entrepreneur and all round great lady to support, motivate, inspire, whilst knowing how to pull something…
2022 – The Year of the Single Parent!
2022 – The Year of the Single Parent! I have it on good authority! Things are changing for us, we are raising awareness of, and challenging, genuine barriers that feed negative public perception. We are making it okay to be single, and a parent! We are not ashamed, we are celebrating a future where relationships…
SMBN Member Claire, Founder of Pets2Places, welcomes first franchisee, Nicola Hughes, who is now operating the Pets 2 Places pet taxi service in Solihull
SMBN Member Claire, Founder of Pets2Places, welcomes first franchisee, Nicola Hughes, who is now operating the Pets 2 Places pet taxi service in Solihull…
It’s official! Purple Shoots Responsible Finance Raising Funds to Specifically Support SMBN Members! and we are so grateful!
This is Mike and Karen, from Purple Shoots, receiving flowers at this years’ Single Mums Business Network Awards, in gratitude for having faith not only in me (Jules), but in a handful of my members when banks had written us off because the computer says no. Purple Shoots Business Lending (“Purple Shoots”) is a not-for-profit…
From MEH to Magnificent! Ways to grow through student life. By Sarah Harvey
I am so excited for SMBN member Sarah who has today published her book on Amazon – From MEH to Magnificent! Ways to grow through student life. I have had a front row seat for the past two years as Sarah has developed her courses, piloted in private secondary schools and with true relentless tenacity…
Have you heard the news? Meet the Partners! Laura Callahan and Nehaya Zitawi!
You may already know if you watched the 6pm news premiere! but if not you can read the online edition of the mag here and read more about Laura and Nehaya as well as all our incredible members and what they are up to in life and business! You can buy a hard copy of…
Welcome New Member, Crystal Gregory. Leadership Coach and Business Consultant – GEC Coaching
I am delighted to welcome Crystal Gregory, an executive leadership coach to the SMBN. Crystal Says: I’m an executive coach who helps leaders understand where their stress comes from, choose the right tools to master these stressors and create a successful career path. Managing leadership roles, family and other committments can be difficult. The tools…
Welcome New Member – Nicola Booth, Founder, Director, and Chair of Trustees – Single Parents Support and Advice Services aka SPSAS
I am beyond pleased to welcome Nicola Booth, of Single Parents Support and Advice Services, to the SMBN. Nicola and I connected when I did THE BIG EVENT, for Single Parents Day 2021, and we all know that actions speak louder than words, so the fact that she has since joined so that we can…
Look at this amazing woman! Welcome New Member Natasha-Dawn Ni Leighn [aka Ash] Founder of Dandelion Weatherstone: VEGAN, ANTIBACTERIAL AND FUNKY C-SECTION KNICKERS…
Look at this amazing woman! Welcome New Member Natasha-Dawn Ni Leighn [aka Ash] Founder of Dandelion Weatherstone: VEGAN, ANTIBACTERIAL AND FUNKY C-SECTION KNICKERS… Yes we all need underwear! But we don’t always realise what challenges exist if you’ve had a c-section, are a pregnant transman or if you have had any kind of surgery that…
Wow – my mind is blown! Welcome New Member Donna Easton – Joyologist and Founder of LifeShine! You have to see her website…
Wow – my mind is blown! Welcome New Member Donna Easton – Joyologist and Founder of LifeShine! You have to see her website… Ever since setting up the SMBN I have been like a broken record talking about the amazing women out there doing this solo, and changing public stereotyping is an ongoing effort. I…
Welcome New Member – Laura Clark, Owner of Aurora Beauty, Swindon – to the SMBN.
I am delighted to welcome Laura Clark, Owner of Aurora Beauty, to the Single Mums Business Network. Laura’s treatments look heavenly and I am very excited to be able to support her by helping to raise awareness of her biz.
Welcome New Member – Kari Sherman, Founder of Tom Pom Organic Baby Food – to the SMBN.
I am delighted to welcome Kari Sherman, Co-founder and Managing Director of Tom Pom Organic to the Single Mums Business Network. Kari’s range looks simply mouth watering and I am very excited to be able to support her by helping to raise awareness of her biz.
Gratitude Post to Friend of the SMBN & Media Foundations Fiona Scott, of SCOTT MEDIA – because we didn’t just fall into the press!
Let me begin at the beginning! How do you write a post when you know it is about a professional media writer that could write it better than you!! – but, alas, this isn’t a PR post it’s an authentic from the heart raw and unchecked post – so let me start by saying -…
Welcome New Member, Carly Newman, of Carly Newman Coaching, to the Single Mums Business Network
I’m delighted to welcome Carly Newman, of Carly Newman Coaching, to the Single Mums Business Network. Carly has a strong career background and has combined all of her skills and experience to help others. Here is what she says; Hi I’m Carly, single mum to my 3 year old boy. I am certified life coach…
Welcome New Member, Philippa Main, of Three Sisters Farm, to the Single Mums Business Network…
I am delighted to welcome Philippa Main, Owner and Founder of Three Sisters Farm, @threesistersfarmshop to the Single Mums Business Network. As a huge fan of dried flowers it’s a real joy to discover Philippa’s site and I am very excited to share it with you! Here is what Phillipa says;
Welcome New Member – Teri Chance. Owner of Teri Chance Boutiques, to the Single Mums Business Network
WELCOME NEW MEMBER – TERI CHANCE. OWNER OF TERI CHANCE BOUTIQUES, @terichanceboutiques TO THE SINGLE MUMS BUSINESS NETWORK. This lady is beautiful, inside and out. I began networking with Teri in 2014 at the beginning of my KIH Bed journey, and I have witnessed her incredible private and professional battles, so to welcome her now,…
Local Business Woman ‘Leading the Hospitality Industry’ in Flexible Working and Removal of Barriers to Work – Don’t ever believe you can’t make a difference because you can!
So today I’ve been having some fun, standing in the middle of the road having my pic taken with this amazing lady who is taking on the world of hospitality, showing true leadership, and doing her bit to create a better future for us all. Some of you will have seen my last blog, (or…
Must be able to work weekends.. why this statement is such a killer and the direct link to your tax bill and the ‘benefits culture’ – how so many industries are getting it WRONG
We all just accept things the way they are, instead of standing up and pointing out how a simple stubborn decision, or comments such as ‘that’s just the way it is’ have such a detrimental impact, not only on the individual but on society as a whole, not only our wellbeing but our economy. We…
Welcome New Member, Fay Victoria Durrant, Owner of Wellness & Wilderness, Self Care for Wilder Women Online or In Person ‘Retreats in the Spanish Mountains’ – I am very excited to welcome Fay – You HAVE to look at her website!!
I am delighted to welcome Fay Victoria Durrant, Owner of Wellness & Wilderness – Self Care Sessions Health & Wellbeing for Wilder Women online & in person on retreats, to the Single Mums Business Network. Fay offers Mindset Movement * Menopause Support *Nature * Yoga * Pilates *Plant Based Food Online & In person on…
The lockdown Swan, A new Business, a new Woman, a new Mother, The Power of Networking!
12 months ago you would never have been able to tell Shannon what she would feel like today. She was struggling with her full-time job in a school and battling childcare, home, life and work and she was desperate to take the plunge and use her incredible art skills to start her own hand lettering…
Welcome New Member – Emma Peries, Social Media Trainer & Consultant – Digital Mother
I am delighted to welcome Helen Must, a Mortgage & Protection Adviser based in Bournemouth, to the Single Mums Business Network. Here is what Helen says:
Welcome New Member, Rosie Gosling of Flamingo Paperie, to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Rosie to the SMBN. Rosie sells UK Manufactured Cards, Stationery and Papercraft Kits on-line and in person via Flamingo Paperie. Here is Rosie’s intro;
Welcome New Member – Chrissie Lowery, to the Single Mums Business Network. Chrissie is a Crafty Entrepreneur, Author, Radio Presenter, Owner of The Cuddle Bed Company and Founder of shophandmade.co.uk!
WELCOME NEW MEMBER – CHRISSIE LOWERY, TO THE SINGLE MUMS BUSINESS NETWORK. CHRISSIE IS A CRAFTY ENTREPRENEUR, AUTHOR, RADIO PRESENTER, OWNER OF THE CUDDLE BED COMPANY AND FOUNDER OF SHOPHANDMADE.CO.UK! – If you sell Art and Craft please do take a look at Chrissie’s platform to help you increase your sales! Read more…
Welcome New Member – Helen Must, Mortgage & Protection Advisor with Mortgage Squared
I am delighted to welcome Helen Must, a Mortgage & Protection Adviser based in Bournemouth, to the Single Mums Business Network. Here is what Helen says:
An invitation to join your local SMBN meeting; Here’s what to expect and how to book!
My initial plan when I set up the SMBN was to host all meetings in person, and drive to various locations throughout the UK to meet all of my members, but I realised that this wouldn’t be viable long-term and so I decided to take on County Coordinators to host meetings for me, and for the SMBN, in…
Welcome New Member, Vicky Price, Owner of CreatiV Communications & The Entrepreneurial Single Mum Group, to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Vicky Price, Owner of CreatiV Communications, and the Entrepreneurial Single Mums Group, to the Single Mums Business Network. SMBN Nehaya, my No.2 and Bristol County Coordinator, met Vicky in a recent Come Network With Me meeting with the lovely Sarah Cook.
Welcome New Member – Pollyanna England, Money Mindset Coach and Founder of Nirvana Investors – Ethical Investors helping people get their foot back on the property ladder!
I met Pollyanna earlier this year, and have not stopped recommending her to potential investors and clients since. What she is doing is a real lifeline for many, and I am so delighted that she has now decided to join the SMBN as a member! Here is what Pollyanna says:
Top Secret Now Out! The BIG EVENT #SingleParentsDay – A Free Webinar with Seven Single Parent Founders
Well THIS has been a hard secret to keep! Join myself, Zoe, Zoe, Ruth, Aruna, Noreen and Sherisha, and many other Single Parent Support Groups to learn what’s out here for you! One in Four , but never alone..
Do you want to be a Single Mum in Business? – Check out the Salary and Job Description (and join the SMBN if this sounds like you!)
Do you want to be a Single Mum in Business? – Check out the Salary and Job Description (and join the SMBN if this sounds like you!) Hours – 119 to 126 per week (must not expect Sundays off) Salary – £2.30 per hour OTE £30K + Holiday Pay – No * Sick Pay –…
Welcome New (old) Member, Esther Nagle, a copywriter from South Wales who helps ADHD and addiction coaches attract clients through engaging blogs, articles and web copy!
WELCOME NEW (OLD) MEMBER, ESTHER NAGLE, A COPYWRITER FROM SOUTH WALES WHO HELPS ADHD AND ADDICTION COACHES ATTRACT CLIENTS THROUGH ENGAGING BLOGS, ARTICLES AND WEB COPY! I am really pleased to be able to welcome Esther, from ‘Be here write now’ back to the SMBN! I never take offence if somebody leaves for a while,…
Existing Member – New Business! Take a look at Indigo Jo – Fine Jewellery
I love to watch my members evolve and grow, in life and in business! Jo joined the SMBN in 2019 when she was utilising her skills as a VA, but moving to Devon helped ignite her real passion as she and her daughter spent hours collecting shells from the beach!. Read all about Jo and…
Social Impact Review Report
You can download the Social Impact Review Report (special first edition with typos) pdf HERE, but I have copied the content below for ease of reference. Single Mums Business Network Social Impact Review Barriers to Work, Cost to Economy and SolutionBarriers to Finance, Cost to Economy and SolutionBarriers to Home, Cost to Economy and SolutionStigma,…
Welcome New Member, Cheryl T, Founder and Principal Consultant – Chapter 46 – to the Single Mums Business Network!
I am delighted to welcome new member Cheryl T, Founder and Principal Consultant at Chapter 46, to the Single Mums Business Network, aka the SMBN. Chapter 46 has a very clear mission ‘To remind you of who you were before the world told you who you should be’ Read more…
2020 – The Year We All Made History. 2021, The Year of Imminent Fun
We have all fought this year. We all have our own personal challenges and triumphs. The main thing is that we are here to tell the tale. We all know the dance isn’t over, but we all know it will be soon. Whatever you have survived for 9 months, you will survive for 3 more.…
SMBN Awards 2021 – New Sponsor – Laura Callahan, Willow HR
When Laura joined the SMBN in 2019, I could not have imagined how supportive she would be. She has offered guidance, coaching, she always wants to find ways to support me and my other members, and I have a had a front row seat as she has expanded her own business, and supported so many…
I should never have been on benefits, but lack of flexible working cost the tax payer thousands…
I SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN ON BENEFITS, BUT LACK OF FLEXIBLE WORKING COST THE TAX PAYER THOUSANDS… I was blissfully unaware of issues surrounding flexible working in my 20’s and early 30’s. As I was blissfully ignorant and judgemental around benefits. I had been quite happy for 20 years in my 9-5 (or more like…
Welcome New ‘Friend’ of the SMBN, Clare Griffiths, Founder of the Thrive Effect
I am delighted to welcome Clare Griffiths, University Entrepreneurship Educator, Advocate for Female Founders and Women in Business and Founder of The Thrive Effect, as a friend of the Single Mums Business Network. I met Clare through her Thrive Huddle, and was really impressed with the way she supports fellow women in business, and so…
Catfish UK are looking for people who have been chatting to someone online for quite some time but have never met up in person or even seen each other on video chat. A ‘Catfish’ is someone who lures a person into a relationship by adopting a fictional online persona, something that annoys me greatly, as I am consistently approached by ‘fake’ Gerrard Butlers, Leonardo Dicaprios and Single Dad Soldiers!
I don’t normally talk about dating through the SMBN, it is a business network, and it is for single mums only as I want it to remain a professional network where members are unlikely to hit on each other (I am primitive I appreciate what is natural). I do signpost men where I can, as…
Welcome New Member, Trupti Dudhia, of Consept Accounting Solutions to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Trupti Dudhia, of Consept Accounting Solutions, to the SMBN. Consept Accounting Solutions is a Watford based, independent accountancy firm specialising in supporting business start-ups. Providing financial and strategic advice specially tailored to you, providing key insights and ideas to transform your business. Members enjoy exposure to their business with every…
Welcome New Member, Aruna Bansal, Founder of the Asian Single Parents Network CIC, to the Single Mums Business Network.
I am delighted to welcome Aruna Bansal, Founder of the Asian Single Parents Network CIC, to the Single Mums Business Network. It is so rewarding to connect with a fellow single parent who can offer support to a community that I do not have experience of, around divorce, legal advice and stigma. We had a…
Welcome New Member, Jane Marney, Cupcake Express, to the Single Mums Business Network
I am delighted to welcome Jane, of Cupcake Express @Cupcakeexpress1 to the Single Mums Business Network. I have no doubt of the calibre of Single Mums in the UK and the SMBN is here to ensure that these ladies get the recognition and exposure they deserve. Members enjoy exposure to their business with every visit…
Welcome New ‘Friend of the SMBN’ – Fiona Scott of Scott Media – Journalism, Public Relations and Media
I am delighted to welcome Fiona Scott, of Scott Media, as a Friend of the SMBN’ I have known Fiona for a number of years and have worked with her when she helped me launch the business and I am so proud that she has joined as a friend, to further support the network. Fiona…
Welcome New Member, Gemma Wall – Priestess of the Woods! to the Single Mums Business Network..
I am delighted to welcome Gemma Wall, Priestess of the Woods, to the Single Mums Business Network. Gemma is a Nature Priestess, Tarot reader, Writer, Poet, Artist and creator of Moon Magic Ritual Boxes, and here is what she says: Hi, I’m Gemma. I’m a writer, artist, priestess and single mother of four children, three sons…
Single Mums Business Network Awards and Covid-19 – This is what is going to happen!
We had planned to celebrate with the first UK National Awards for Single Mums in Business on May 23rd 2020. Due to Covid, we played it safe and postponed the Awards until November 21st 2020, but following today’s announcement by the Prime Minister about events closing down, likely for another 6 months, we have had…
Welcome New Member – Susie Mackie – Founder – Women of Spirit
I am delighted to welcome Susie Mackie, Photographer, Author, Founder of Women of Spirit and Hotter Shoes Inspirational Woman! to the Single Mums Business Network. I have been connected with Susie for a few years and admired her work from afar, and I am so proud that she is a fellow SMiB and has joined…
Welcome New Member, Fabienne Wilkinson to the Single Mums Business Network. Fabienne is a VA and Paralegal.
I am delighted to welcome Fabienne to the SMBN – Fabs is a Virtual Assistant and Paralegal based near Cardiff and she has joined the SMBN to help her gain exposure to her new business and to join a network of like-minded professional single mums. Here is what Fabienne says:
Member success story – single mum in business created three female breadwinners, and has now hired a new member of staff who is pregnant
To try and articulate how immensly proud I am to share Laura’s story seems to great a task. Not only is she a single mum who faught to make work work for her and her family, she sustained, she grew, she employed, and during Covid-19 when the self-employed partners lost work, she created and sustained…
SMBN MEMBERSHIP – PROFIT OR PURPOSE?
For our children, we work together, for change, for a better life. PARENTING SHOULD NOT CARRY A FINANCIAL PENALTY, We NEED to create tomorrow’s carers, nurses, shopkeepers, vets, cleaners, administrators ETC. We have to continue the life cycle! and we SHOULD not be dismissed for doing it!
Neesie, Facilitating Prosperity for Single Mums, Sponsors the ‘Acing Adversity’ catergory at the 2020 Single Mums Business Network Awards
Neesie, Facilitating Prosperity for Single Mums, Sponsors the ‘Acing Adversity’ catergory at the 2020 Single Mums Business Network Awards
Meet Jane, shop eco for xmas, and browse for some cards to post to your loved ones..
We love Jane. Jane has been a member of the SMBN for several months and she supports so many local networks it’s incredible. Jane promotes herself as a Utility Warehouse Partner (see her welcome post here), but that’s not all she does – like getting blood out of a stone I recently learned of her…
Genny Jones – Happiness and Wellbeing Consultant
Genny Jones has been working in the accounting profession for 25 years in various roles. Over the years she has overcome a period of work burn out, depression and low self esteem to developing her unique happiness and wellbeing sessions aimed at businesses to help employees manage their stress levels so that they can be…
Welcome new ‘Friend of the SMBN’ – Carol McIntyre, Exec Pro VA
I’m delighted to welcome Carol McIntyre, Exec Pro VA @execprova as a ‘friend of the SMBN’. The mission of the SMBN is ‘To help self-employed working mums in the UK who are fighting solo to be financially independent whilst there for their families’. Friends of the SMBN are valuable in helping us gain this exposure…
Welcome New Member, Gemma Bullock, Aurora Within
Hi I’m Gem I’m a single mum to two boys aged 9 and 6 my eldest son has additional needs. I work part time in a pharmacy as a dispenser as well as running my own beauty business from home (aurora Within) I’ve just further expanded my Beauty business to do aesthetics such as lip…
Webinar: Single Mums in Business and Flexible Working. Thank you to the British Library for Facilitating
Here is the presentation: Thank you to those of you who joined us today, and this is for those of you who requested a recording. We could have talked for hours, I will arrange another webinar or workshop soon. Jules x http://www.singlemumsbusinessnetwork.com
Welcome New Member, Esther Nagle. Blog and Social Media Content Writer for Yoga Teachers
I would like to welcome Esther Nagle, of beherewritenow.co.uk to the Single Mums Business Network. Esther is based in Wales but the nature of her work means that she can help you wherever you are in the UK! Here’s what Esther says: What do you get when you combine a love of writing with a…
We don’t need no education! (despite the double negative!) We just need less time control..
As part of my journey in establishing the SMBN and what it stands for, I have spent a significant amount of time researching what support is out there, for women who have been locked out of their careers, since making the very selfish decision of keeping the conveyor belt of life going.. Gone are the…
Students in Mind..
SMBN Member Sarah Harvey joined the network when her business idea was in its infancy. She has since supported other members, coordinated meetings in Liverpool to help other women grow and now she is ready to share more information about her business – Students in Mind. Students in Mind offers wellbeing coaching & facilitating within…
Covid-19 and destitute self-employed, self-sufficient single mums
I have long campaigned for the right of a mother, or any primary carer, to be able to enjoy the sanctuary of employment with some flexibility to work 0.6 or 0.8 FTE without sacrificing skillset or pay scale. As it stands, many women ‘choose’ self-employment, as an alternative to a benefits lifestyle when they find themselves…
Welcome New Member – Danielle Fletcher – Certified Social Media Marketer, Facebook & Instagram Ads Strategist, Learn Digital With Danielle
I am delighted to welcome Danielle Fletcher, Certified Social Media Marketer, Facebook & Instagram Ads Strategist, Learn Digital With Danielle, to the Single Mums Business Network. We met at a recent Woman Who awards event in Coventry and made an immediate connection. If you are still shy about networking, please don’t be, once we have…
Welcome New Member, Rebecca Flynn – Director of Alpha and Omega Recruitment, London & Liverpool
I am delighted to welcome Rebecca to the SMBN! Again, Rebecca just showcases the professional woman that is also a Single Mum – are you beginning to see? Rebecca met Sarah, our County Coordinator in Liverpool last month and I am so pleased that she has now decided to join our fantastic National Network, of…
How the fragile economy and relative poverty will now cost lives..
For too long, relative poverty, high debt and cost have living v low income has been ignored, or brushed under the carpet, and now it is clearly evident that a significant portion of society simply cannot afford to ‘ride the storm’ for a few weeks or a few months, in what should be a time,…
I’m a Finalist! Woman Who Achieves Awards 2020 with Sandra Garlick MBE
Just in-case you didn’t see my post on Facebook, or Instagram, or Twitter, or Google, or LinkedIn, or if you didn’t see me skipping down the road! I have news… I’m a finalist! and yes I am celebrating it’s a really big deal.. I first applied for the Woman Who Achieves Awards in 2018 -…
Welcome New Member, Carly Wheeler, Trainee Tattoo Artist, TJT
I am delighted to welcome Carly to the Single Mums Business Network. It is so easy to judge a Single Mum, and many still do… 18 months ago Carly was happily married with a young child and a baby on the way, and then tragedy struck…. Tom Wheeler was a loving husband and doting father.…
Welcome New Member – Val Hood. Evidential Medium. Australia and UK
I am delighted to welcome Val Hood, Evidential Medium, to the SMBN. Val is a perfect example of why it is so important for a family to manage on a single income so that women are not trapped in abusive relationships. Val is from the UK but now lives in Australia and offers workshops and…
Single Mums Business Network [SMBN] [CIC] 