Free workshop for people wanting to launch their own homecare or health and wellbeing business or community group

WERN and Cool Ventures are running a free workshop for people wanting to launch their own homecare or health and wellbeing business or community group.

Free support is available across Bath and North East Somerset for people who

want to turn their skills and experience into a small business providing health,

wellbeing and community services.

Have you ever thought about becoming self-employed but didn’t know where to start?

Perhaps you have experience in care, enjoy helping people, or have a skill or passion

that could benefit others. Local charity West of England Rural Network (WERN) can

help you turn that idea into a viable business.

The WERN micro-enterprise support service, commissioned by Bath and North East

Somerset Council, helps people navigate the practicalities of becoming self-employed.

The service transferred to WERN from Community Catalysts in April 2026.

Over the past three years, 52 new enterprises and community groups have been

launched or supported, providing services including personal care, befriending and

companionship, life coaching, dance, community chess, Nordic walking, gardening and

home decluttering.

One of those supported is Carol, who set up The Everyday Helper, offering practical

help and companionship to people in their own homes.

Carol said: “The programme has helped build my confidence in my business and has

provided valuable opportunities to connect with local organisations and raise awareness

of the services I offer. I would definitely recommend it to other small businesses starting

out.”

Tris, a registered nurse, health visitor and Forest Therapy Practitioner, used the

programme to launch Trees & Tranquility, helping vulnerable people manage mental

health challenges through time spent in nature.

She said: “I felt I had something different and more individual to offer but didn’t have a

clue how to become self-employed. The WERN programme ensured I knew my

responsibilities when offering a service to the public so that I could be confident, safe

and credible.”

WERN provides practical guidance on areas including business planning, marketing,

finance, safeguarding, quality standards and statutory requirements.

Free workshop in Bath

For further information please email: michael@wern.org.uk