Richard Dixon is an experienced draughtsman who is capable of drawing very detailed plans. Having experienced several months of unemployment, Richard decided he wanted to work for himself.  The barriers he faced included expired CAD qualifications, and he also needed help to fund the training he required and marketing costs to start up his own business.

Richard contacted NBSL who offer free, impartial advice to help people develop ideas and get their business venture off the ground, and was allocated two Business Advisers - Dave Gibbon and Laura Mathieson – with the mix of coaching and mentoring skills to help Richard develop his idea and get his business off the ground.

Dave helped Richard access funding for up to date CAD training whilst Laura worked with Richard to apply to Go Wansbeck’s LEGI for funding towards equipment and gave assistance with the development of a business plan.  Richard was also successful in applying for a grant to help with advertising costs!

Richard launched his company RD Drawing, drawing up plans for conversions, new build and engineering work, and can be contacted on 07957 173785 and at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Richard said “Over the last couple of years in the current economic climate, I found that I was ‘surplus to requirements’ several times with employers and so made redundant.  As the periods between jobs were getting longer, I decided it was time to be master of my own destiny and work for myself.  Without the tremendous help from NBSL I would not have the equipment I need for the business and I would probably still be claiming benefits.  I can now offer a comprehensive Drawing Service to anyone wanting plans done for extensions, conservatories, engineering works or manufacturing and electrical engineering.  I really look forward to helping people realise their ideas by putting them down on paper to become reality.”