A business leader who is transforming lives through her community care company is encouraging others to benefit from the same support she received from Greenwich Council, writes Maya Wolsley…
Banke Agbaje founded her healthcare business with support from Greenwich council’s Community Micro-Enterprise Programme.
Agbaje originally trained as a lawyer, but wanted to do more for the community that supported her when she was receiving care herself. After retraining as a nurse, she founded Sacred Heart Healthcare with backing from the council’s programme.
Her firm has now grown to a team of five that provides personalised care to residents across Greenwich and Kent, and helps them live with dignity in their own homes.
“Starting my own business wasn’t always easy, but the support I received gave me the confidence to grow. If you have a passion for helping people, don’t underestimate what you can achieve,” she said.
The council’s Community Micro-Enterprise Programme is free for residents looking to turn a passion for caring into a sustainable business by offering advice, mentoring and practical guidance on issues such as regulation, insurance and business development.
The founder has also received funding to explore turning Sacred Heart Healthcare into a co-operative, which would allow everyone involved in the company to work together and have a greater say in how it is run.
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Communities said: “Banke’s story shows what’s possible when local people are supported to turn their passion and experience into something that benefits their community.
“Community micro-enterprises provide personalised, flexible support that helps people live independently while creating local jobs and stronger neighbourhoods.”
If you’re interested in starting your own community care business then register your interest with co************************@****************ov.uk or visit the Council’s website.
