Pieceof mind
Mum Cassie and her partner beat grief and depression after being skint on the dole by opening their own thriving sandwich shop STANDING on stage with an enterprise award in her hand, Cassie Neil reflected on how her life had transformed in a year.
Cassie and her partner Jarron had been locked in a cycle of grief, depression and financial hardship. But they are now small business owners with hope on the horizon.
Cassie, 29, had to give up work as a carer for people with learning difficulties after Jarron was floored by family bereavements.
In 2008, he lost his brother and a year later his mother died, leaving him bereft and unable to work.
Depression has dogged Jarron since, although he remains a dedicated partner and dad.
The couple have four children, Jarron, eight, Jack, seven, and twins Harper-Lee and Joey, who are seven months.
Cassie returned to work when Jack was four but her job was demanding and she felt compelled to leave to support Jarron and her family at home.
She said: “We struggled to make ends meet. I found jobs here and there but nothing stuck. It took its toll and I got diagnosed with anxiety and depression and was unable to work.”
Cassie and Jarron, from Danderhall in Midlothian, hated relying on benefits but couldn’t see their way out of the mire. A year ago, Cassie saw a commercial unit for lease near the construction site of a new housing estate. She thought it would be perfect for a small takeaway. She had always been interested in cooking and felt the unit was in a good spot to pick up custom from construction workers, as well as passing trade. The prospect of having her own business was nerve-wracking but it gave Cassie a sense of optimism and hope. She started researching running a business and got in touch with the Prince’s Trust, who help young people up to the age of 30 to get back on their feet. Cassie enrolled on the trust enterprise programme that supports young people to start up in business.
Supported by a mentor, Cassie formalised a business plan and presented it to the trust.
They were so impressed that they awarded her a grant and a loan to help renovate the unit and buy essential equipment.
Cassie said: “I burst into tears when they said they would back me.”
With help from family and friends, Cassie and Jarron renovated the unit into her cafe – The Take-away. Within months, it was open.
The business will take time to turn over a regular profit but Cassie is determined to make it work. Above all, it has been a huge morale boost for the couple and their children.
Jarron is at home as a full-time dad and Cassie is enjoying working at the takeaway.
The couple’s mental health has improved and they feel more confident. Cassie said: “I am doing this for us as a family. I want the children to see their parents working and being happier. I want them to see us as role models.”
Getting an enterprise award from the Prince’s Trust was a boost. Cassie said: “I feel proud that my hard work has been recognised.
“I have made plenty of mistakes but I’ve weathered the storm and I am confident about the future.”