Dormen Mentors 300th Business
Dormen, the Dorset Business Mentoring Programme, which provides free one-to-one mentoring support for small businesses across Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole, is celebrating its 3rd birthday. Since its launch at the end of 2005, it has helped to improve the local economy and many of its clients report sales growth of over 20% as well as new job creation.
The Programme has also recently started mentoring its 300th local business, following a referral from Business Link. Dormen’s clients range from sole traders to medium-sized companies.
The 300th business, Ultra-Clean Blinds Ltd of Ebblake Industrial Estate, Verwood, is run by Karen and Steve Hall and mentored by Sheelagh Meredith. Sheelagh, who joined Dormen 2 years ago, has already supported 11 other local businesses and is now helping the couple review their strategy and future direction.
Dormen’s growing team of mentors from the local business community is now 36 strong. They give their time, on a voluntary basis, to help new businesses establish themselves and grow. Support is therefore available from people who have a proven record of achievement and experience in the business world.
Vivian Dunn, Dormen’s Programme Manager, said: “Dormen provides a unique business mentoring service in Dorset and thanks are due to our experienced volunteers who make it all possible. The practical assistance provided by the mentors is even more important today as economic conditions get more difficult.”
L-R: Julie Leigh (Business Link), Vivian Dunn (Dormen), Karen & Steve Hall (Ultra-Clean Blinds Ltd), and Sheelagh Meredith (Dormen)
