Friends Lynne Falconer and Sally Kiddie’s firm Heal offers physio and massage services in Dundee and Fife
Why did you start in business?
We feel like it was meant to be.
After moving back to Dundee, Sally registered with her new doctor who mentioned they had a large, purpose built physiotherapy room and asked if she would be interested in renting it.
A few days earlier, Lynne had called to say she was moving back from New Zealand.
After a long chat we decided to take up the offer.
We managed to secure a part time NHS physiotherapy job and shared this role while working part time on the business based within the medical centre.
How did you get to where you are?
We placed an emphasis on customer care and offering services we knew were lacking in the area.
In 2017, we opened a private clinic within the University of St Andrews, where we provide treatment on a self-referral and self-funding basis for the university’s athletes, students and staff.
After a three year search and months of renovation, we opened our new premises in Dudhope Street, Dundee in June.
Who has helped you along the way?
We used Business Gateway even before we opened our doors, with Lynne attending a workshop the day after she got off the plane from New Zealand.
We attended courses on marketing, accounts and branding and have used the skills we learned. More recently we secured funding through the Small Business Finance Dundee scheme and, now we have settled into our new premises, the plan is to work with our Business Gateway adviser further and benefit from its Digital Boost services.
Your greatest achievement?
Moving into new, larger premises is a great achievement. With nine treatment rooms, a pilates studio and a rehabilitation gym, we can continue to expand.
Our biggest achievement though, is building an amazing team including administration, management, physiotherapists and health professionals.
Hopes for the future?
We have plans to extend our class schedule to include yoga, ante and post-natal pilates and condition specific classes focusing on osteoporosis and back pain.
We now have a clinical psychologist and a psychologist with an interest in sport related issues and we are also hoping to start offering a women’s and men’s health physiotherapy service focusing on pelvic pain and continence.
In addition, we have secured occupational health work for St Andrews University and will work with student services to expand into that community.
Do you want to recruit in future?
With the expansion in our services we are looking to employ another full time physiotherapist who can work between St Andrews and Dundee.
As the clinic in St Andrews becomes more established we will look to expand our hours there and expect to take on more people.
The hardest thing about running your own business?
We know our trade but it has been a steep learning curve in regards to business management, human resources, policies and procedures and recruitment.
Advice to wannabe entrepreneurs?
It can be scary and daunting but plan well, roll up your sleeves and be prepared to work hard. Ask for help and use services like Business Gateway.
