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 leaves you needing antibacterial high waisted knickers with soft fibres to avoid incision irritation! But just like me with the KIH Bed, Ash became aware of a gap in the market through her own experience and as a necessity entrepreneur with a ‘I can solve this problem for the masses’ attitude, embarked on her own journey of creating something for other people’s benefit, and she is infused with ethics and helping others from her eco chain to her anti slavery and vegan checking measures.. what a very cool lady she is! Here’s a few words from our newest member Ash:
I design anti-bac, vegan post C-section / abdominal surgery knickers, and organise sponsorship for women who cannot afford them. I also have a link up with a tree planting service for customers who have had babies who have died. I needed these knickers myself in 2012 and there was nothing available, I was immunocompromised owing to diabetes, these knickers reduce pain, prevent diastasis recti and also help prevent infection. I also wouldn’t have had the money to pay for some when I was pregnant. I’m eco-friendly, have an anti-slavery policy and have a compassionate ethos around mental health.
Ash’s story is heartfelt and insightful and I am really pleased to be sharing it in the new SMBN magazine that is out next week – watch this space! Ash welcome to the SMBN and I’m really proud that you and your daughter have joined us so that your journey isn’t so solo after all x
See Ash’s Website: https://dandelionweatherstone.com/
You can connect with Ash on Facebook here and Instagram here
Gratitude Message
Ash was introduced to the SMBN by Elaine Atherton who invited me to her 2SummitUP #payitforward podcast 11 months ago, and after listening to it Ash decided to join the SMBN! You can listen to that Podcast here: https://2summitup-pay-it-forward.simplecast.com/episodes/pay-it-forward-with-jules-hawkins?t=0m40s
I never doubt the calibre of single mums in the UK who suffer with very negative press and stereotyping, despite being amazing women who are working their butts of to make work work, despite barriers, and bringing up beautiful, lovely children, who have fantastic ethical role models.. read about our other members below!
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 support each others empires and in turn further support the parents we support warms my heart in so many ways. …
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 am blown away every time I meet yet another incredible woman, and then another one pops up! I just knew they were out there. I have a queue now of women to introduce who have joined lately, but one at a time – as they deserve exclusive PR and recognition! Meet Donna Easton – Donna is a Joyologist, a laugher, a performer, a people connector, a mindset coach, Founder of ‘LifeShine’, ‘WellMeOke’ (wellness cabaret show) and ‘The Selling with Heart Academy’. there is not much I can say except wow – just take a look at her website and see for yourself! @mylifeshines
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, … Read More
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 … Read More
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, with her business and spirit thriving, to the SMBN is really something else. Teri was one of the ladies who helped me build my own confidence so I know you are in safe hands when you shop with her! Here’s what Teri says;
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 recent at least) where I was passionately upset about being reminded how we are locked out of so many customer facing roles that need weekend staff. My local landlady read my blog, and said ‘I want to do something about this Jules’ we had coffee – and this is what happened next!
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 … Read More
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 Retreats in the Spanish Mountains. Read more….
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, … Read More
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 their County…
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 – No * Perks such as Gym Membership or Costa – No
Bank Holidays – No * Annual Leave – Sorry, No (needy springs to mind)
You must be driven, able to work autonomously, and free to carry out emergency childcare (without taking any time off) in case of pandemic, 13 weeks of school holidays, in-service days or sickness.
If that sounds good so far and you meet the job description below (read on) – you may want to join your comrades in the SMBN!
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, life does that to us, what I really love is that she came back, after knowing what it looks like on the inside! and just in time for the Spring issue of the SMBN mag! super duper..
Read more….
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 … Read More
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 … Read More
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. The human timescale for rebirth and readjustment. A future that learns from the past..
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 families through such a difficult year. She not only won the Family Employer of the Year category 2020, she has now pledged her support for the 2021 Awards by sponsoring the same category. Membership fees are so low for the SMBN, at only £5pcm, and without any charitable status or Grant support, outside of my own income I am cannot express my gratitude for sponsors enough
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 8-8), and short of wishing it was a four day week, so that I could get things done, like mortgage phone calls and fridge deliveries or electrician appointments etc, I wasn’t too troubled, as at least I could swim at 7am and visit the gym until 9pm.. it was when I became a single mum, I realised I was living this crazy world of presenteeism, that actually destroyed so many people!
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 it is a real pleasure to celebrate her via the SMBN. Clare is based in Brighton but facilitates networking and events on-line as well as in person so it really doesn’t matter where in the UK you are based!
You do not have to be a single mum to join, we have friends of the SMBN too. Every time a new member joins she is not only helping herself but helping every other member and friend of the SMBN, we welcome you x
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 is evident on the first page of the SMBN, but our group is girls only..
I cannot count how many message requests and connection requests I have had from fake Gerrard Butlers, fake Leonardo Dicaprios and fake Single Dad Soldiers. Now I can send them to Catfish UK to investigate further…
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 visit to the SMBN and associated PR. Please don’t hesitate to join us if you are a Single Mum working hard to pay the bills alone, we are here to help you. You do not have to be a single mum to join, we have friends of the SMBN too. Every time a new member joins she is not only helping herself but helping every other member and friend of the SMBN, we welcome you x
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 very good meeting a few weeks ago and it was so refreshing to be able to ask questions and understand more about arranged marriages, how they differ to forced marriages, and not to feel like our different experiences and understanding has to divide us, when coming together is so much better to support all UK single parents. I am very proud to help raise awareness of the Asian Single Parents Network.
@AsianSinglePar1 @asp.network
Members enjoy exposure to their business with every visit to the SMBN and associated PR. Please don’t hesitate to join us if you are a Single Mum working hard to pay the bills alone, we are here to help you. You do not have to be a single mum to join, we have friends of the SMBN too. Every time a new member joins she is not only helping herself but helping every other member and friend of the SMBN, we welcome you x
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