16 October 2026
Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and what initially feels like a setback turns out to be the beginning of something completely different.
That’s certainly been my experience over the past year.
In July 2025, I broke my arm while on holiday. At the time, I was working for Asda in their home shopping department, a physically demanding job that involved moving heavy shopping trolleys and preparing customers’ orders.
I expected to recover and return to work as normal. Unfortunately, things weren’t quite that straightforward.
Even six months later, I was still unable to manage some of the physical demands of the job. It became clear that I needed to think about doing something different.
What I hadn’t anticipated was just how difficult finding suitable employment would prove to be.
Finding Work in Your 50s Isn’t Always Easy
I’ve worked throughout much of my adult life, gaining experience in administration, customer service, reception, organising events and helping businesses with their everyday operations.
So when I began looking for work again, I felt I had plenty to offer.
However, the opportunities coming through employment agencies were often part-time cleaning positions or kitchen work in schools.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with either of those jobs. In fact, I’ve worked in school catering myself, so I know how demanding and important that work can be.
But I also knew that my experience extended far beyond those roles.
I wanted to find something where I could make use of the skills I’d developed over the years, particularly my administrative, organisational and customer service experience.
As the weeks passed, I began wondering whether I was approaching things the wrong way.
Perhaps, instead of waiting for someone to offer me the right opportunity, I could create one myself.
Realising I Already Had the Skills to Start Something
When I thought about my previous jobs, I realised just how varied my experience had been.
I spent six years working as an administrator for the National Council for Hypnotherapy, dealing with member enquiries, supporting the organisation’s board and helping organise its annual conference.
I’ve also worked as an administrator and receptionist at the Surrey Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy, managing appointments, answering enquiries, handling payments and preparing documents.
Alongside this, I’ve helped a local osteopath with marketing and website updates, and I’ve gained experience in other administrative and customer service roles.
One thing these jobs have taught me is that being organised, reliable and approachable can make an enormous difference to the people you’re helping.
And I began thinking about how many small businesses struggle to keep on top of everyday administrative tasks.
Not every business needs a full-time administrator. Sometimes they just need someone for a few hours to catch up on correspondence, organise paperwork or update their website.
The same applies to everyday life.
There are times when people could really benefit from an extra pair of hands, whether that’s collecting something, running an errand or making sure their pets are looked after while they’re out.
That was when the idea for Just Ask Kath began to take shape.
Introducing Just Ask Kath
I’m delighted to say that I’ve now launched my own business, Just Ask Kath, based here in Wallington.
My aim is simple: to provide friendly, reliable and affordable practical help to local businesses and residents.
For small businesses, I offer assistance with administration, correspondence, document preparation, proofreading and WordPress website updates.
You don’t need to employ someone permanently or commit to a regular contract. If you need a few hours of help, that’s absolutely fine.
My small business support costs £20 per hour, with discounted rates available for longer bookings.
I also offer personal assistance at £15 per hour, helping with everyday errands, shopping, collections and practical arrangements.
And for pet owners, I can help with dog walking and home visits to feed and check on pets while their owners are away during the day.
I’m based in Wallington and cover Carshalton, Sutton and surrounding areas. Some business administration and website work can also be carried out remotely.
Starting Again Doesn’t Have to Mean Starting From Scratch
One of the things I’ve realised through this experience is that changing direction later in your working life doesn’t mean abandoning everything you’ve learned.
In many ways, it’s quite the opposite.
Every job I’ve had has taught me something useful, whether that’s dealing with customers, managing confidential information, organising an event or simply finding practical solutions when things don’t go according to plan.
Those skills don’t suddenly disappear because you’ve reached your 50s.
Starting a business is certainly a new challenge, particularly in the current economic climate. There are plenty of things to learn, and I know that building a successful business will take time.
But I’m excited about the opportunity to do something for myself while helping other people.
And perhaps that’s the biggest change of all.
Instead of wondering whether somebody will recognise what I have to offer, I can get on with putting those skills to good use.
A New Chapter, and Hopefully the Start of Something Good
I’m looking forward to meeting local business owners and residents who might benefit from a little extra help.
Whether you’re running a business and drowning in paperwork, struggling to find time for everyday errands or need someone reliable to check on your pets, I’d love to hear from you.
I offer flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends by arrangement, because I appreciate that not everyone needs help between nine and five.
And because Just Ask Kath is my own business, you’ll always deal directly with me.
If there’s something you need help with, just ask!
My story was also featured in a press release published by EIN Presswire on 15 October 2026. You can read the original announcement here.
