How a VA Can Empower Disabled Business Owners to Thrive
As a Virtual Assistant (VA), I’m passionate about supporting disabled entrepreneurs. Many are drawn to freelancing for the flexibility to manage health conditions, the autonomy to be their own boss, the potential for unlimited income, reduced stigma compared to traditional workplaces and the opportunity to build a supportive online community.
While entrepreneurship offers incredible freedom and is an integral part of business life here in the UK, the unique challenges faced by those with disabilities can feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in.
A Shared Understanding: The Disabled Entrepreneur’s Experience
As a disabled freelancer or business owner, you seek not just to survive but to thrive in the business world, leveraging your unique skills and perspectives to create a meaningful impact. But you know firsthand the effort it takes to manage essential tasks, navigate online platforms and maintain consistent productivity while balancing health considerations.
Understanding the importance of careful energy pacing, strategic planning and prioritisation means you’ve likely explored various tools and technologies to streamline your workflow and enhance your communication, constantly adapting and learning as new options emerge.
And you’ve probably encountered biases and misconceptions in the business world, necessitating extra effort to build trust and showcase your expertise. Not to mention the difficulty of attending networking events, conferences and meetings where accessibility is barely a second thought. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, 25% of small business owners are disabled or have a health condition and 23% of those business owners have experienced discrimination or negative treatment.
Your disability, chronic illness, or neurodivergence does not define your business potential. With the right support, you can thrive. As a VA, I’m committed to working alongside you, helping you achieve your entrepreneurial dreams.
Streamlining Your Workflow, Amplifying Your Impact
As a VA, I offer personalised support that can be tailored to your specific needs and challenges.
I can take on time-consuming tasks that might be physically or mentally taxing, freeing up your valuable time and energy to focus on the core aspects of your business that ignite your passion. I can also help you explore and implement assistive technologies that streamline your workflow, making your day-to-day operations more efficient and accessible.
Communication can be effortless with a VA by your side. I can handle client emails, zoom meetings, social media interactions, or any other form of communication that suits your preferences. This allows you to focus on building relationships and delivering exceptional value to your clients without the added stress of managing communication channels.
Staying organised and on top of projects is crucial for success. As your VA, I can help you create project plans, set realistic deadlines and track progress. This ensures that your business runs smoothly and efficiently, even when unexpected challenges arise.
I’m also committed to being your advocate and ally. I can help you navigate any challenges related to accessibility or discrimination in your business, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are respected.
Beyond Boosting Productivity: The Personal Impact of a VA Partnership
Partnering with a VA doesn’t just lighten your workload; it can profoundly impact your overall well-being and professional journey.
By delegating tasks that drain your energy or time, you reclaim control over your schedule and priorities. This newfound autonomy allows you to focus on the aspects of your business that truly matter, fuelling your passion and drive.
With a reliable VA handling the details, you can confidently focus on your strengths and expertise. Knowing that your business operations are in capable hands allows you to step into your role as a business owner with renewed confidence and clarity.
A VA can also act as a supportive partner who understands the unique challenges you face as a disabled entrepreneur. This fosters a sense of inclusion and belonging in the business world, allowing you to focus on your goals without feeling isolated or unsupported.
With years of expertise under my belt working with a variety of freelancers, business owners and entrepreneurs over several industries and with their own set of challenges and circumstances, you can be certain that I have the knowledge and wherewithal to point you in the right direction when you need help, or simply to help you save time and energy.
You Could Benefit From my Services with ‘Access to Work’
Did you know the UK government’s Access to Work scheme can provide financial assistance to cover the costs of hiring a VA? This initiative aims to support individuals with disabilities or health conditions by funding services that can improve work efficiency. If you’re eligible, Access to Work can help you access the support you need to thrive as an entrepreneur. So you can experience these benefits at a minimal cost to your business.
To be eligible for Access to Work, you must have a mental or physical impairment that has lasted or is likely to last at least 12 months. The impairment must impact your ability to work and you must be aged 16 or over. You must live in England, Scotland, or Wales and be in paid work, about to start work or be self-employed. If you are self-employed, your earnings must be above the Lower Earnings Limit (LEL).
If you are a disabled entrepreneur, I encourage you to learn more about the Access to Work scheme. This program can help you cover the cost of hiring a VA, which can free up your time and energy to focus on growing your business. Read my blog about the Access to Work scheme to find out more, or directly visit the government’s website here.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, I invite you to explore the possibilities of partnering with a VA. Let’s have a conversation about your specific needs, challenges, and aspirations. Together, we can create a tailored plan that empowers you to reach your full potential.