Council’s Community Catalysts helping small businesses flourish and changing lives

Delivered in partnership with Community Catalysts, a national social enterprise that creates opportunities for people to thrive, the council has invested £170,000 to help micro-enterprises grow and become sustainable.

Community micro-enterprises are run by individuals or small groups, offering flexible, person-centred “help at home” for older and disabled people. This support can include tasks such as shopping, assistance with attending appointments and social activities, cleaning, practical jobs around the home, and personal care. The Community Catalysts programme helps to fill gaps in local services while supporting the development of small businesses which help to change lives.

Individuals who wish to become self-employed to provide ‘help at home’ receive free one-to-one support from Gloucestershire’s Community Catalyst, Heather Vincent. She guides them through the Community Catalyst Development Programme, offering coaching and mentoring, as well as signposting local business support and networking opportunities. This support helps local providers to confidently deliver high-quality, good-value, reliable person-centred services.

The programme, which began in 2024, is now expanding beyond support in people’s homes to also include community‑based activities and groups. These can include social sessions, cooking, gardening, creative activities, and gentle movement. This wider offer supports wellbeing, reduces isolation and strengthens preventative support by helping delay or reduce the need for more formal care.

Zoe, based in the Forest of Dean, developed her micro-enterprise with one-to-one support from Community Catalysts. After completing the development programme, she launched a service offering personal care and practical support in people’s homes. The support offers flexible, relationship-based help that can adapt to what matters most to the person and their day-to-day life.

Cllr Dr Kate Usmar, Cabinet Member for Adults Support and Independence at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “This programme is about recognising the strength and potential within our communities. By supporting local people to turn their skills and passions into sustainable micro‑enterprises, we’re creating more choice for residents and helping people stay independent, connected and supported in ways that matter to them.”

For more information on the Community Catalysts programme, visit www.communitycatalysts.co.uk/our-work/gloucestershire/ or contact Heather Vincent heather.vincent@communitycatalysts.co.uk