Social Entrepreneur of the Year
A Tipton woman was named Social Entrepreneur of the Year in the West Midlands for contributions to the local economy and community.
Catherine Paterson Higgins of Tipton Homecare Limited was presented with her prize at a national social economy conference held in Dudley. She was picked from more than 20 people nominated in the awards which were sponsored by the West Midlands Co-operative and Mutual Council. She set up the community enterprise six years ago while working as a fundraiser for the RNIB. She saw a need for home-based care services and researched the market before opening the business with one other care worker. The non-profit making organisation was launched with the help of Tipton Community Enterprise and now employs 50 staff providing care services to 140 elderly and infirm clients in the Sandwell area of the West Midlands.
After her success, Catherine said: "I am overwhelmed and delighted that my work has been recognised and hope that other people will be inspired by this award to set up similar enterprises where there is a desperate need". She was also keen to acknowledge the contribution of everyone involved with the business: "Without good staff you can't accomplish anything" she said. She received a cheque for £2000 which, she says will be used to provide training for staff to ensure the current high quality of service is maintained. As for her tips for any budding social entrepreneurs: "Be determined, work hard and put in long hours - but the rewards are great."
Tipton Homecare Limited were certified by QMS in November 2000.
For further details call Catherine on 0121 557 3649.
Catherine Paterson Higgins of Tipton Homecare Limited was presented with her prize at a national social economy conference held in Dudley. She was picked from more than 20 people nominated in the awards which were sponsored by the West Midlands Co-operative and Mutual Council. She set up the community enterprise six years ago while working as a fundraiser for the RNIB. She saw a need for home-based care services and researched the market before opening the business with one other care worker. The non-profit making organisation was launched with the help of Tipton Community Enterprise and now employs 50 staff providing care services to 140 elderly and infirm clients in the Sandwell area of the West Midlands.
After her success, Catherine said: "I am overwhelmed and delighted that my work has been recognised and hope that other people will be inspired by this award to set up similar enterprises where there is a desperate need". She was also keen to acknowledge the contribution of everyone involved with the business: "Without good staff you can't accomplish anything" she said. She received a cheque for £2000 which, she says will be used to provide training for staff to ensure the current high quality of service is maintained. As for her tips for any budding social entrepreneurs: "Be determined, work hard and put in long hours - but the rewards are great."
Tipton Homecare Limited were certified by QMS in November 2000.
For further details call Catherine on 0121 557 3649.
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