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Jane Dreaper is the founder director of Dalemoor Ltd. Dalemoor offers help with change management and communications as well as accredited executive coaching. The company is named after our wonderful Yorkshire Dales and Moors. Recent clients include the executive team of an NHS membership organisation in Leeds, leaders from BBC Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, and an organisation running seven national museums across Wales.
“I never imagined starting my own business in my mid 50s! But I knew that my 3 decades of work as a journalist – including many years in senior roles and “on air” at the BBC – had given me valuable, transferable skills. I wanted to use them to build a new portfolio career, with more control over the work I do. I can honestly say it’s been 90% thrilling…and 10% daunting.
The “10% daunting” bit is where York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub has come in. When I began setting up the business, I thought: “surely the council can help someone like me”. I’ve benefited from a welcoming network – and I recommend the monthly Connect over a Cuppa sessions in Harrogate. It’s good to not feel alone! Ed Ryder has built a great community who also help each other out on WhatsApp when required.
Crucially, the Hub’s excellent, free online webinars have encouraged me to learn about AI, intellectual property, Canva design and website analytics – to name just a few subjects! The initial hour spent at a session is repaid many times as I often refer back to the session notes while I develop my skills.
And a shoutout to Michael Reynolds for the individual support and encouragement he’s given my business. I’m very proud to have now become a supplier to the Growth Hub, with government funding meaning I can now offer free support with digital content creation to my fellow entrepreneurs who apply to the Digital Voucher scheme. The Hub is a key network and engine for growth in our region.”