Pictured above: Tim Mitchell
A Shropshire man with a debilitating health condition has
snapped up the opportunity set up his own photography business,
with help from Shropshire's largest training provider, County
Training.
Tim Mitchell, 35, from Oswestry, had previously worked as a Cold
Store Operative for a producer of dessert and food products in
Welshpool, but had to leave his position in February 2009 due to
psyaratic arthritis. This caused severe pain to both his ankles and
tendons around the feet, which left Tim in a cast, so that his
tendons could rest. Tim also has arthritis to one of his index
fingers, this making it impossible to lift or carry awkward and
heavy objects. Tim had to give up the idea of doing manual work
that he had always done since the age of 16.
Wanting to get back into work Tim joined County Training on the
Pathways to Work programme, which provides support back into work
for those on health-related benefits.
Tim said "When I came to County Training, I had a clear idea of
what I wanted to achieve. I have always had a passion for
photography since I was a child and could always be seen with a
camera hanging around my neck! Whilst I was working, it had always
been something that I pursued in my spare time and I was really
keen to try and make this into a career for myself."
County Training, part of Shropshire Council, offered Tim support
and guidance provided funding for the essential equipment that Tim
needed to set up his business. Through their Response to Redundancy
programme, they also provided support to allow Tim to complete
training on business and IT courses enabling him to create his own
Client Data base and build his own website
www.timmitchellphotography.com
Tim went onto start his own business in April 2010, called Tim
Mitchell Photography, dealing with all types of photography.
Tim went on to say "I am so appreciative of all of the support
that I have received at County Training. To be able to have
fulfilled my ambition and to be doing my hobby as a career is a
dream come true."
Councillor Steve Charmley, Portfolio Holder for Culture and
Leisure, commented "Tim is a great example of someone who has
really made the most of the support and funding County Training can
provide. There are lots of opportunities available for people who
want to work, and County Training assists many people each week
into sustainable employment."
Tim commented " I would like to say a huge thanks to all
involved, County Training made me very welcome and guided me
through some of the hardest times in my life, and anyone reading
this who is thinking of going down the same road, in whatever
career you choose…don't think just do it, you won't be
disappointed".
County Training delivers Pathways to Work in Shropshire on
behalf of Remploy, the UK's leading provider of employment services
to people experiencing complex barriers to work.