Can we get finance for a business/charity while we are full-time carers?

[cori]

Both me and my husband had to give up work to provide care for our disabled children, which is classed as full time work. However,after 2 years I wan't to start either a Business or Charity whereby I would offer respite breaks/holidays for carers and their families, who are in the same position as us (ie: somewhere that wouldn't mind children with Severe Learning Difficulties who are prone to be what others see as "disruptive") However, after 2 years of carers allowance we have no cash to start anything, and never bought a house as we had to give up work not long after our children were born, so have no equity either. I can find nothing on Business Finance for people in our position, so thought about starting a charity (As I am not concerned about making personal profits) Can anyone help? I really don't know where to begin, I have talked to specialists who have said that there is a need for the sort of service we would provide, but because they don't know of anyone else doing it, they could not give me much guidance. I would be grateful for any ideas/help. Thank you!

[amonty1144]

In our area, this service is provided by an organisation called Quarriers. You could look at their website. Although I think this may be quite difficult due to the mound of regulations in social care now
I think the best way forward is to contact the fostering and adoption department of your local social work department, you could then become respite carers for children with disability. They will pay you to do this and provide any necessary equipment.
If you are looking for longer term care, there is an adoption agency in London that fosters kids with disabilty, i can't remember the name sorry
if i can be of any further help, give me a shout.

[cori]

Hi, thanks for the quick reply. The sort of Respite I want to offer is more along the lines of a Holiday Place (small hotel or similar) which I didn't put in my original question (brain working faster than fingers!) where families could have a break together, rather than placing a child into seperate respite care. The main difference would be that the environment would be (more) suitable, as others there would be in the same position, and I would like to offer activities that children with learning disabilities may not have the chance to do on a 'normal' holiday. I suppose, it would be more like a "holiday camp" with something for parents and children. I've asked around, and as far as I know there is nothing for families/children with Learning Difficulties in this area, but the specialists who deal with my children have said that it is something that would be in demand. I had thought about offering respite care, but would prefer something where parents and children could have a break together, and share experiences. If you can think of anything then all ideas would be much appreciated as this is something that has been at the back of my mind for a while, but I fear if I don't do something soon then it may end up there!

[Oneeyedvic]

Firstly you will need to prepare a business plan - if you google you should find some templates. There will be a lot of guess work involved but it will concentrate the mind somewhat.

Think of everything that you will need - ie property, how many staff, insurance, carers, etc etc.

From there, you can figure out if it is something that can take place.

Once you have done that and have a business plan (including cash flow forecasts) post back and I will give you some places which will probably help. Places like Business Link should be able to help you produce a business plan.

You can also contact me during normal working hours via my website: http://www.allianceandgeneral.com

[cori]

Hi, thanks. I will take your advice and start a Business Plan, no doubt I will be in touch as soon as I have something?! written down, this may be a while as I may have to resort to when children are safely (and quietly) asleep, to do it - which is unpredicatable! Thanks again.