New Opportunities Arise with the Help of Funding
- Jan 13
- 2 min read
Founded by Kay Lloyd, The Opportunity Club offers day and evening support group services to young adults with additional mental health needs and learning disabilities.
Funded by Start Up Loans
£15,000 boost towards:
Rent payments
Staff salaries
Transportation
Region: Leicestershire
What does your business do, and how is it different from others?
We offer day and evening group support sessions for young adults with additional mental health needs, ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and mild to moderate learning disabilities.
We understand the importance of having fun while learning and developing life skills and independence, and our support services reflect this in every session.
What inspired you to start your business?
I became aware of the limited availability of services for young adults with additional needs. I wanted to use my experience and do something worthwhile that is very dear to me.
How is your background related to your business?
I have a background in mental health nursing, as well as experience caring for those with learning disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
How did the funding help?
The loan helped us cover initial set up costs, as well as the rent payment, initial staff salaries and transportation costs.
Additional comments from the Founder, our Business Advisor, and our partner British Business Bank
Securing funding to support areas like marketing and hiring was a key challenge, especially while trying to stay flexible with my business model and finances.
"My experience with First Enterprise was super, I received very warm and receptive support from my advisor and everyone in the team I spoke to. I would really recommend them and wouldn’t be where I am today without them.” Commented Kay Lloyd, Founder of The Opportunity Club
“Kay’s vision for The Opportunity Club was truly inspirational and moving. I am confident in her experience and really enjoyed working with her to get this application completed! I can see the service being an important stepping stone for young adults with additional needs. I wish Kay all the best with her business.” Commented James Minott, Business Advisor at First Enterprise
"Start Up Loans is in a unique position to be able to back businesses like The Opportunity Club, which might struggle for financial backing from other sources. It is really good to know our start up finance helped this business get started and is creating jobs and opportunities.” Added Louise McCoy, Managing Director, Start Up Loans Products, British Business Bank
First Enterprise is a responsible finance provider offering unsecured loans ranging from £500 to £250,000 to support both start-ups and established businesses across the UK Since 2011, First Enterprise has lent over £77 million to 7,305 businesses.
Learn more about how we can support your business.
