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From the frontline – Sheila McFee
What is it like to help tenants set up their own businesses? Sheila McFee, business enterprise coach at Yorkshire Housing, talks highs and lows
Tell us about your job
I support social housing customers to start and grow their own business. Working together one-on-one or as part of an in-house training programme group, we look at how they can use their skills and ideas to the best effect to make profits from doing what they love.
I was recently named as Enterprise Support Champion at the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs Celebrating Enterprise Awards 2018.
How did you get into housing?
I started doing this type of work via a European-funded business start-up and support project. I’ve also been an assessor and trainer in the housing sector before, working with staff rather than customers.
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What is the best part of your job?
I love meeting and being able to support customers who have a great idea which is viable but aren’t sure how to get it started as a business. Then if they get the business started and are successful, it’s great to see.
What’s the worst part?
I would say the travel and when customers do not attend appointments.
What would you change about the housing sector?
We work with customers to support their development and independence – it would be great if all customers in social housing could have this opportunity.
If you could be prime minister for the day, what would you do?
I’ve seen great results with young people, at school and college, when they have mentoring to give them the opportunity to explore their strengths and work towards their career dreams with passion. I’d make sure these opportunities were available to all young people. I’d also revert to the previous pension ages.
What’s the most private thing you’re willing to admit to your colleagues?
I’m not sure, I’m a pretty open person. I enjoy yoga and have aspirations to train as a teacher but I don’t think any of my colleagues would be surprised by this!
