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Romsey’s space making sisters get a boost through £750 Business Incentive Grant

Two sisters from Romsey, who set up their own business to help people de-clutter their homes, have been awarded a £750 grant by Test Valley Borough Council.

Elizabeth Kennedy and Vicky Fordham have received a Business Incentive Grant to help their company ‘Space Makers’.

People who struggle with not having enough space in their homes or are fed up with clearing away increasing amounts of stuff can ask the Space Makers for help to de-clutter their homes, organise their belongings and put storage and processes in place to create more space.

The idea for the business came up a few years ago, with lockdown prompting many people to de-clutter their homes, as they tried to juggle working from home, bringing up children and home schooling.

Elizabeth said:

“We were very grateful to receive our Business Incentive Grant from Test Valley Borough Council. It has really helped us cover the initial costs of starting a new business such as insurance, marketing and website design.”

Romsey Abbey ward councillor Sandra Gidley said:

“I very much enjoyed meeting Elizabeth and Vicky and learning about why they decided to set up their business and the challenges they have faced. Most of us have too much “stuff” and they have a warm and practical attitude to helping you organise your possessions and your space. There is much emerging evidence that reducing clutter helps your mental health so if you are seeking a perfect gift for “someone who has everything” then a session with these two lovely ladies could be the answer!”

The council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley. Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.

These funds have become available to the community as a consequence of the council’s prudent investments, financial management and the use of the New Homes Bonus.

For more information about the council’s grant schemes, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk.