Category: Business

08:24:32 GMT • 15 November 2024

Which are the Best Gadgets for Dog Walkers?

27 January 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Dog walking seems like such a simple thing to do: grab a lead, attach it to the dog, work out your route and away you go. But when you’re running a professional dog walking business, things aren’t necessarily quite that simple.

First of all, you’re likely to be walking several dogs at the same time, all with their own characteristics and energy levels, giving you lots to manage and think about. Then you’ve got all the hazards around you to avoid: people, bikes, traffic and other dogs, to name just a few. And on top of that, then there’s the weather to consider, and how your dogs might be affected if it’s too hot or too wet, for example.

All this means that owning a few nifty bits of kit can make the whole act of professional dog walking much easier for you, and potentially much more enjoyable for the dogs, too. In this blog, we’ve picked out some of the best gadgets for dog walkers.

Our choice of the best gadgets for dog walkers

There’s a huge marketplace for dog-related gadgets nowadays, but not all of them serve the needs of those walking multiple dogs simultaneously. With that specific consideration in mind, here are some of our favourites:

Pet Room Pouch Bag

There’s seemingly a million and one things that a dog walker has to carry with them: poop bags, treats, water bowls, phone, wallet/purse, keys, and so on. This can lead to some very full pockets, or the need to wear a big jacket in summer, which is where a handy pouch bag comes in handy. It’s full of space for treats and valuables, can be slung over your shoulder to free up your arms for lead control, and can even have things like water bowls clipped to the outside.

Portable Poop-Scoop

Clearing up dog mess isn’t pleasant, but it’s a necessary evil of the job when you’re a dog walker, so anything you can use to make it a bit more palatable is a worthwhile investment. A portable poop-scoop looks just like a giant Bulldog clip and works a treat: it even has an expandable chamber so it can handle even the biggest piles that the dogs you walk leave behind. The ability to clip it to a belt (or the pouch bag mentioned above) makes it especially user-friendly, too.

Biodegradable Poop Bags

No dog walker ever leaves the house without a copious supply of poop bags in their pockets, but the plastic nature of them isn’t especially kind to the environment. Instead, it’s worth looking at biodegradable poop bags made with a blend of corn starch that will eventually degrade over time. And don’t worry about leaks: they’re made from an especially thick material.

Car Seat Covers

If you’re collecting dogs from their owners, or taking them out for a walk in the countryside, then you may have to transport them in your car. Understandable, you won’t want to get your seats dirty, which is where you can benefit from car seat covers specifically designed to carry dogs. Not only do they protect your upholstery, but they can also come in the form of a basket that can give smaller dogs stability when they’re in the car.

Portable Dog Washer

If you do venture into the country, then it’s easy for dogs to get wet and muddy. However, a portable dog washer can solve the problem of getting everything dirty, or of you returning a dog to an owner much muckier than it was when it left. All you need to do is fill it with water, use the hand pump to build pressure (no electricity required) and use the brush attachment to clean the dog. It’s small enough to fit in the boot of your car, too.

Get Dog Walking Insurance with Protectivity

As useful as all these gadgets can be for dog walkers, you never know what might happen when you’re out on a walk. Whether it’s dogs jumping out in traffic, attacking other dogs, or their leads tripping people up, there are many things that can happen that could lead to a claim being made against you.

That’s why Protectivity provides comprehensive insurance specially tailored for the needs of professional dog walkers. With our competitively priced policies, you’ll be covered for injuries, accident damage, public liability, vet bills, and ‘Care, Custody and Control’, so you can grow your business with confidence. Find out more on our dog walking insurance policies here.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

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What is Mediumship?

25 January 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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We all live in a challenging world, and it’s perfectly understandable that many people feel they need spiritual help to guide them through their lives. This is especially the case for those who have lost someone close to them, and feel they need some guidance to help them along the way.

It’s for that reason that many people turn to mediumship for this spiritual guidance, which is helping mediumship become a viable business option. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the basics of mediumship, the different types of practice, and how to set up a mediumship business.

What’s the difference between a medium and a psychic?

Put simply, a medium is a type of psychic who specifically uses their powers in order to communicate with the spirits of the dead. By being able to make contact with deceased people on behalf of the living, mediums can help the living better deal with the loss of a loved one or gain spiritual advice to help them in the future.

A psychic, on the other hand, refers more generally to anybody who can connect with the paranormal in any way.

What types of mediums are there?

There are six different types of mediumship skills. Some mediums will focus mainly on one of them, while others will be able to spiritually connect through several. As this list demonstrates, the types are based around the five ‘traditional’ senses, plus one that’s emotional:

Clairvoyance: the ability to see people, places, colours, symbols or objects within the mind
Clairaudience: being able to hear sounds or speech from a spirit
Clairgustance: understanding a spiritual presence or substance through taste
Clairtangency: using the sense of touch to hold or touch an object or person, and garner information through it
Clairscent: the ability to smell a spirit’s odour or fragrance and derive information
Clairsentience:being able to receive feelings and emotions from a spirit

How do you become a medium?

Firstly, it’s vital to discern whether or not you have any psychic abilities. You may feel that you do, but it’s important to know for sure before you start marketing and selling your services to the public. A good starting point is to ask for some advice or assessment from a renowned industry professional. Many offer training courses on how to harness your psychic abilities to best effect as a medium, and these may be the best people to get in touch with.

There is no official or legal requirement to possess any qualifications or licences in order to become a medium. However, taking some courses and gaining some credentials can give you some gravitas that makes you look authentic to the public. It can also help you learn new skills at the same time.

Aside from the mediumship-related areas, there are also a number of business factors and costs to consider, as is the case with any kind of therapy. For example, are you going to operate as a sole trader or as a limited company? How are you going to market your business? How will you set up your website and social media channels, and what information will they provide? Researching other mediums can give you an idea of what to do in these areas, and help you understand if there are any gaps in the market that you can exploit.

Finally, you should also work out where you are going to provide your mediumship services from. Do you want to operate from your own home, from the homes of clients, from a dedicated venue, or from a combination of all three? Working this out will help you understand the likely costs you’ll incur, how much you’ll need to charge for each session, and any insurance cover you might need to protect your interests, revenue and equipment (if any).

Get mediumship insurance with Protectivity

However you operate as a medium, it’s important not to overlook the value of good-quality insurance cover for your business. After all, some things really are impossible to predict, and you don’t want to end up out of pocket.

At Protectivity, we offer specialist insurance policies for mediums, including Public Liability cover in case of injury or damage to a third party, equipment cover and Professional Indemnity. Our cover is available from just a few pounds a month, and is available through flexible payment plans, so you can get peace of mind for minimal outlay.

Take a closer look at our options for mediumship insurance policies here.

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Top 7 Apps For Event Planners

20 January 2023

•

4 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

If you’re already working as an event planner or manager, you’ll know that it’s nowhere near as easy as it looks. There are a million and one things to keep track of, and make sure they all happen in the time and place they’re supposed to happen. It only takes one mistake to derail all that hard work – and you’ll often be the person who has to take the blame.

Thankfully, tech solutions such as apps for event planners are here to minimise the risk of that happening. In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the best event planning apps around.

About us: Event Insurance from Protectivity

Our event cancellation insurance policy offers a range of benefits including public liability, employers’ liability, event cancellation cover and much more.

Why use an event planning app?

Event planning apps come into their own because they can help you bring the vast majority of your functions and to-do lists into one place. From booking catering and arranging table layouts, to coordinating audio-visual systems and organising marketing, they can put all your tasks into the palm of your hand.

Many apps integrate with other platforms and solutions, so work that you do in one will automatically update the other. For example, events you create in some apps can automatically update Facebook or other social media platforms, so that those interested in attending can start to register straight away.

Our favourite apps for event planners

There is a vast range of apps for event planning out there, all of which fill their own specific niches or target market. To help you find one that might suit your own needs, we’ve picked out seven of our favourites:

Asana

Asana is used by many businesses to coordinate work tasks and collaboration, but it can be just as useful for event planning, too. You can easily create tasks, assign them to other people, set due dates, then track progress within schedules to keep on top of everything.

Bizzabo

If planning large events that require substantial marketing duties, then Bizzabo should be your first port of call. Not only does it incorporate task management to keep everything running smoothly, but there’s also the ability to build registration websites, marketing emails and event agendas, all from one place.

Boomset

Guest registration and check-in can be a real headache, especially at larger events with lots of attendees. Boomset enables fast check-in processes, the ability to print customised badges and wristbands, and other innovations that makes check-ins easier for you and your guests.

Localist

If your top priority is getting information about your event to a wider audience, then Localist can help. It’s a relatively simple events calendar that can be made publicly accessible and interactive, so that anyone can see what’s going on, where and when. Localist also connects to Facebook so that attendees can fit your events in with their own plans.

Planning Pod

Planning Pod is the platform that does a little bit of everything. This includes (and isn’t limited to): managing attendees, scheduling and managing tasks, arranging seating, building registration websites, coordinating budgets, managing guest lists, and much, much more. If you feel that you lose a lot of time navigating different platforms day-to-day, then this might well be the app for you.

Social Tables Check-In

This free app is an excellent replacement for organising guest lists through Excel or on paper. It enables guests to be checked in within a matter of seconds, and seating layouts to be designed in either 2D or 3D, so that every attendee gets a seamless, stress-free experience when they arrive.

Decibel Ultra

One area often overlooked in event planning is sound and noise, especially if there are restrictions on volume in a particular place. This free app is ideal for measuring decibel levels in any given area, to make sure that any music, speeches or performances won’t cause any issues on the day.

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What Is Hand Stripping In Dog Grooming?

19 January 2023

•

5 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

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Every breed of dog is different, and it’s fair to say that some of our furry friends are furrier than others. Because of that, certain breeds need regular and careful attention from professional dog groomers, which is why dog grooming has risen in popularity as a career option of late.

One vital part of any top dog groomer’s repertoire is hand stripping. This is the act of using hands to take out any loose fur and coat coloration on the dog. It often accumulates around the face, chest and legs in particular, and is an important job to keep dogs cool, clean, healthy and stylish.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at why hand stripping is so important, the benefits and drawbacks of doing so, and the particular breeds that need it most often.

Which dog breeds need hand stripping?

Generally speaking, it’s dogs that have wiry coats that need hand stripping the most, so that their fur (and therefore skin) doesn’t get clogged up with dirt. It can also be especially helpful in summer as it ensures that the dog doesn’t end up with an overly thick coat which leads them to overheat on particularly warm days.

The following breeds are some (but by no means all) of the breeds for which hand stripping is recommended: Airedales, Border Terrier, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Dobermans, German Shepherds, Irish Wolfhounds, Poodles, Schnauzers, Scottish Terriers, and West Highland Terriers.

Why should you hand strip instead of clipping?

The reason hand stripping can be so beneficial compared to clipping is that it removes the entire hair including the root, rather than just trimming it back. Wire hair on dogs generally only lives from around six months, after which it dies off, so removing these dead hairs entirely frees up space for new, healthy coat to grow in its place.

As they die off, they become weak and loose enough that it’s easy and painless for dog groomers to remove them with their bare hands. Alternatively, some groomers prefer to use a serrated stripping knife to make the job a little easier, but this comes down to personal preference.

The pros of hand stripping

There are a number of reasons why hand stripping is favoured, by groomers, dogs and owners alike. For starters, it’s generally a less stressful process compared to clipping, as it doesn’t cause any anxiety for the dog in terms of feeling or noise. A more relaxed dog makes for a far easier and more enjoyable experience all round, and reduces the risk of groomers being bitten. Indeed, it’s not uncommon for some dogs to fall asleep while they’re being hand-stripped.

Most of the time, hand stripping generates better results in overall grooming as it brings healthy coat to the fore all across the body of the dog. And as mentioned earlier, taking away old, dirty fur can reduce health risks to the dog, as a build-up of dirt can easily lead to flea bites, allergies or skin irritations.

The cons of hand stripping

There are, however, also some risks relating to hand stripping. While it can be quicker than clipping, in some cases it can actually take longer, especially for dogs that need particular attention in certain areas. For dog groomers, this can impact profitability if selling appointments at a fixed rate.

Dogs also have to be handled with care during the process, especially those who have sensitive skin. If hair is removed too roughly, then skin can be irritated and the process can become painful for the dog. If the tissue underneath the skin is damaged, this can even lead to infections and bleeding for the dog.

Finally, dogs that are hand stripped generally need it to take place on a regular basis – potentially as often as once every few weeks. This can be expensive for some owners if using a dog groomer rather than doing it themselves, so offering a discounted rate for multiple appointments can help groomers generate repeat business.

Useful hints and tips

If you’re still getting up to speed with hand stripping within your dog grooming business, then there are several tips that can make the job easier, quicker, safer, and kinder for the dog:

Don’t rush the job for the sake of fitting it into a certain amount of time. If the dog looks uncomfortable or agitated, stop for a minute or two before carrying on more gently
For particularly wiry dog fur, a soft-bristled brush can often be highly effective in removing large quantities of hair without causing the dog any pain
Consider using petroleum jelly to soothe any areas of skin that you feel might get irritated
Use gloves in order to keep your hands clean
Apply some insecticide at the end of the process to ensure that fleas and ticks don’t attack the dog

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

However, you groom a dog, there’s always the risk that something can go wrong, and that’s why having the best possible dog grooming insurance in place is vital.

Taking out Protectivity’s policy for dog grooming insurance can demonstrate to owners that you care just as much about the wellbeing of their pet as they do. Incorporating cover for public liability, specialist equipment, and Care, Custody and Control, it ensures you won’t be out of pocket if the unforeseen occurs.

Find out more on all of our competitively-priced dog grooming insurance options here.

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Personal Training Business Software: the Top 10

13 January 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

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Many personal trainers start out in the industry with plenty of expertise and enthusiasm for delivering great sessions, but don’t have the necessary support from the business side of things. Thankfully, technology is here to help, in the shape of personal training apps that allow many functions to be run from smartphones, but also from personal training business software that allow an entire business to be managed from a single platform.

These solutions have the ability to make a personal training business easier to run, deliver better customer service, help clients achieve their goals and maximise revenue. Whether you’re just starting out with your own PT business, or want to make a change to improve things, the benefits can be transformative – in this blog, we’ve picked out ten of the best solutions on the market.

Our top personal training business software choices

There are so many personal training business software options around that we couldn’t possibly list them all here. So, to give you a guide on the best ones to explore for your business, we’ve picked out ten of our favourites, covering a broad range of different training types and business models:

PT Distinction

PT Distinction is one of the most well-known personal training solutions around, and with good reasons. It gives PT business owners an all-in-one experience, whether they need to manage a few clients or several hundreds. As well as offering website integration, bespoke online coaching, nutrition support, client technique analysis and the ability to create fitness challenges, you can apply your corporate branding to the app to align it with your overall look and feel.

Booksteam

Keeping track of who has booked you, when and where is often a task that many PTs struggle with. Booksteam is a leading solution for solving that problem, as an online scheduling service that can ease and automate appointments and bookings, both for individuals and groups. As well as being able to manage your schedule in one place, clients can make bookings through the platforms themselves for a more seamless experience.

Hexfit

Hexfit is a good choice for PT businesses that are starting small and intend to grow and scale up in the future. That’s because the software is available across a variety of tiered price points that differentiate access to services depending on budget. But it’s also the home of some really helpful innovations, such as aggregating smartwatch data, the ability to plan with the help of artificial intelligence, and a database of thousands of exercises to make use of.

Dietmaster

Many solutions in this area are focused more on fitness and athletic achievement, and less on the very different space of diet and nutrition. For this specialism, Dietmaster stands out as a leading software option. It makes it easy to create and manage personalised diet plans for your customers, analyse their food journals to track their progress, and even develop and distribute shopping lists to help keep them on the right track.

Virtuagym

Virtuagym is a stand-out choice if you want to add virtual and home-based training services to your portfolio. Your clients can access the platform 24/7 and explore a range of classes and workouts online, complementing the training that you deliver in-person. You’ll also be able to keep in touch with your clients through private messaging and push notifications, and take payments and bookings within the platform.

ClubWorx

If it’s help with business administration that you need the most, then it’s definitely worth taking a look at ClubWorx. Designed principally for those running a studio, it encompasses attendance monitoring, marketing communications, payments, invoicing, enrolment and other vital paperwork duties. This makes it quicker and easier to handle all the back-office work, so you can spend more time on growing your business.

10to8

10to8 is ideal for larger personal training businesses who want to take a more corporate, professional approach. It’s full of integration opportunities with calendar solutions like Google Calendar, iCal and Outlook, finance software like Quickbooks, communications tools such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, and even sales management software like Salesforce. If you want to become a major personal training player, 10to8 can help you bring everything together in one place.

Exercise.com

Exercise.com is a recognised player in the PT space, and its business management software takes into account virtually all of the daily activities and admin jobs that a PT business might encounter. This includes (but is by no means limited to) giving feedback to assessment, dovetailing training with an eCommerce store, advanced marketing and schedule management, and reporting on progress and performance.

TrackActive

Some PT businesses like to specialise in helping medical patients improve their fitness, or help with their rehabilitation. TrackActive is the perfect platform for this specialism, coming with an extensive database of professionally-guided exercises based on proven medical evidence. With these, you can go on to develop customised workout plans that give clients the best chance of achieving their goals.

Training Tilt

If you’re training your clients specifically for endurance, then keeping track of their key metrics is vital. Training Tilt is one of the leading choices for taking these measurements, including speed, pace, elevation, heart rate and much more for runners and cyclists alike. The app can be connected with leading GPS tracking apps like Strava and Garmin, enabling that vital link between client activity and their performance data.

Get personal trainer insurance with Protectivity

Whichever software option you choose, and whatever the type of personal training business you want to run, good-quality insurance cover for you, your clients and your equipment is absolutely essential.

Protectivity provides comprehensive personal trainer insurance to professionals just like you, with years of success covering ambitious newcomers and experienced industry leaders alike. When you take out one of our policies, you get Public Liability and Professional Indemnity cover, £250 of free equipment cover, and the ability to customise your policy to suit the specifics of your business. Find out more about our competitively priced insurance for personal trainers.

Get Personal Trainer Insurance from Protectivity

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8 Tools and Resources for Mental Health Therapists

10 January 2023

•

6 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Get therapist insurance from Protectivity

As a mental health therapist, you’re sure to want the best resources at hand to support your clients on their mental health journey. If you’re looking for tools to improve your day-to-day work as a therapist, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of valuable resources to support both your work and those who are receiving value from your services.

Here are some of the best tools for therapists to help support your day-to-day work as a mental health professional.

Recommended books for mental health therapists

Learning and developing doesn’t need to stop once you’ve graduated from university. While there are several books aimed at psychology students, licensed professional therapists should aim to continue learning and developing their knowledge throughout their careers.

Here are some of the best reading materials to help develop your expertise and refresh your knowledge.

1. Emotional Intelligence: Why it Can Matter More Than IQ – Daniel Goleman

First published in 1995, Goleman’s bestseller argues that emotional intelligence is actually a stronger indicator for success than your IQ. The book covers topics such as self-awareness, impulse control, empathy and social deftness, which Goleman explains are all integral to the workplace. This famous work is an insightful exploration into the role of emotional intelligence at work – a great perspective for therapists looking to help their clients.

2. On Becoming a Person: A Therapist’s View of Psychotherapy – Carl R. Rogers

First published in 1961, Carl R. Rogers’ renowned book offers a therapist’s perspective on psychotherapy – making it a must-read for those interested in clinical psychology. Rogers was the founder of the humanistic psychology movement – a movement in psychology that supported the belief that humans are unique beings and should be treated as such by psychologists and psychiatrists. Rogers’ influence spanned decades and became an influential part of mainstream psychology. While the book was written several decades ago, Rogers’ work remains topical and relevant in today’s world.

3. The Makings of a Therapist: A Practical Guide for the Inner Journey – Louis Cozolino

Starting out as a newly qualified therapist can feel daunting. If you’re looking for some words of wisdom by a veteran therapist, Louis Cozolino’s classic text is a must-read. This book works as a go-to guide for new therapists seeing clients for the first time, with all the things Cozolino wishes someone had told him in his first few months of clinical training. The book includes guidance about working with your clients, from handling direct questions to encouraging them to talk more. It’s an honest and thoughtful text that should give you some reassurance if you’re just starting out in your career and are in need of some guidance.

Recommended blogs for mental health therapists

Following blogs can help you keep up-to-date with the latest trends in therapy, have resources on hand for career development and be aware of any challenges faced within the practice. Each of the blogs below offer unique perspectives to therapy that you can resonate with.

1. Kim Rosenthal – kimrosenthalmd.com

Kim Rosenthal is a practicing psychiatrist who has spent most of her career as a travelling doctor. Her blog covers a range of topics from addiction to marriage and relationships, and she has also produced two workbooks on addiction to support both those in recovery, and clinicians. Each of her articles are filled with information, passion and intellect making her blog one not to be missed.

2. Psychotherapy.net

Pyschotherapy.net believes that great therapists never stop learning. Their blog is home to a variety of articles, spanning across several areas of psychology from trauma to couples therapy. Each article is written by a professional in psychotherapy, from therapists to counsellors. If you’re looking to keep in touch with the latest news surrounding the therapist field, Psychotherapy.net’s blog is the place to go. You’ll find in-depth articles written by like-minded professionals, sure to leave you inspired.

3. The British Psychological Society’s The Psychologist

The Psychologist is an official publication of the British Psychological Society. Their well-established blog includes articles, interviews, reviews and career opportunities. It’s a great way to keep in the know with all areas of the psychology discipline. The team all have qualifications in psychology and related subjects, so are well-versed to guide and inspire therapists like yourself.

Useful worksheets and downloads for mental health therapists

1. Get Self Help worksheets

Get Self Help offers free, downloadable worksheets suitable for CBT sessions with your clients.

2. Therapist Aid

Therapist Aid offers free, downloadable worksheets for mental health professionals, to help support them with their clients’ therapy sessions. They offer a variety of worksheets and information booklets on several topics to help support your clients.

Recommended social media groups for mental health therapists

Social media is a great way to get your name out there, advertise your therapy services and meet like-minded professionals.

Facebook is a valuable resource for therapists looking to connect with one another. Groups such as Online Therapist Group are a space for licensed therapists and other mental health professionals who are looking to create an online psychotherapy practice or expand their in-person private practice.

Instagram is also a great place to connect with like-minded individuals. If you’re a therapist looking to grow your online profile, advertise your services and share your thoughts – Instagram is the answer. Take a look at Dr. Nicole LePera (the.holistic.psychologist) for example – with over five million followers, her Instagram profile has become a hub of knowledge and community, allowing her to connect with others and share her expertise.

What are the benefits of using tools for day-to-day work?

As a therapist, using tools such as worksheets and books can greatly benefit your day to day work, and improve the therapy sessions you conduct with patients.

Using worksheets can help you document sessions your clients have with you, and offer you new approaches to explore in therapy sessions. They also complement the behavioural therapy you may be running with a client by allowing them to dig deeper into their emotions and meet their mental health goals.

Get your mental health therapist insurance with Protectivity

As a therapist, you’ll want to go to work each day with the confidence that should the unexpected happen, you have the support to put wrong to right. Our therapist insurance will cover you for compensation claims should you accidentally injure a client or damage their property while conducting your therapy service. You’ll also be covered for Professional Indemnity should you ever be sued for any negligent advice given to your clients. Get a quote for therapy insurance today and get the peace of mind that you deserve.

Get Therapist Insurance from Protectivity

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11:59:56 GMT • 14 November 2024

Dog Grooming Qualifications to Become a Dog Groomer

6 January 2023

•

7 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Get dog grooming insurance from Protectivity

If you’re a dog lover who would love nothing more than to spend each day taking care of precious pooches, dog grooming could be a great career option for you.

Dog grooming is a rewarding job where no two days are the same. And while there isn’t a requirement to become a dog groomer, attaining some qualifications for dog grooming will give you experience and help you to stand out from the crowd.

There are several routes you can take to become a dog groomer. Perhaps you’ll take a college course, or undergo an apprenticeship. Maybe you’ll choose to complete specialist courses run by private training organisations such as City & Guilds.

Here, we cover some of the qualifications you could complete to become a dog groomer, and the journey you could take to begin your career.

Recognised dog grooming qualifications

There’s no set roadmap to becoming a dog groomer but completing a qualification in dog grooming would be advantageous. Being trained professionally tells your future clients they can trust you with their precious pups and helps you to stand out against the competition.

Here are some dog grooming qualifications to consider:

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants

Ideal for school leavers or those looking for a career change, the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants is for those new to the industry who want to train as a dog groomer. You don’t need any previous experience or qualifications to study for this certificate.

The Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants covers:

Health and safety
How to handle dogs
Bathing and drying
Dog breeds and their temperaments
Selecting the correct shampoo and equipment
Basic clipping and trimming techniques

You’ll be assessed with weekly workbooks, assessments on a variety of dogs, and a 60 question end of course exam. Once you’ve completed the course, you will receive a City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants. You can then choose to go on to study a Level 3 qualification if you want to develop your skills further.

Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming

The Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming expands on the knowledge you’ve gained during the Level 2, allowing you to further your skills and abilities to work as a professional dog groomer.

Once completed, you will feel confident in handling and grooming a range of dog breeds, ages and temperaments. You’ll know how to minimise stress, undertake health checks, and be able to adjust grooming requirements accordingly.

To be awarded this certification, you’ll need to complete a practical demonstration of what you’ve learnt or an assignment, as well as a written test to prove your capabilities.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants, you can progress your skills further by studying for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.

During the course, you’ll learn all of the practical skills needed to professionally style dogs with different types of coat. You’ll also receive the training you need to be prepared to work as a dog groomer in line with legislation and welfare requirements.

Once you’ve completed the diploma, you could choose to work for a business, or as a self-employed dog groomer.

How long does it take to become a dog groomer?

It’s easy for those who aren’t in the industry to assume that dog grooming only involves brushing dogs. But becoming a professional dog groomer takes time and involves learning several areas of canine care. If you’re considering a career in dog grooming, you may be wondering how long it takes to become qualified.

How long it takes to become a dog groomer depends on the route you choose. There aren’t mandatory qualifications or requirements to become a dog groomer. Instead, the choice is yours if you’d prefer to gain hands-on experience in a salon shadowing professionals, or study for a qualification to learn the tricks of the trade.

If you choose to study for a certificate or diploma in dog grooming, it can take weeks or months to complete depending on the course. You may decide to learn the ropes with an apprenticeship, often offered by both large pet retail and grooming chains and small independents. In your apprenticeship, you’ll work with a professional dog groomer who will walk you through every step of the grooming process. An apprenticeship will usually take up to 18 months to complete.

Useful training resources for upcoming dog groomers

With a bit of research, you can find some useful training resources to help you on your journey to becoming a dog groomer, all without breaking the bank. Reed Courses, for example, have a list of several dog grooming courses you can look into to get you started.

Things to consider before becoming a qualified dog groomer

Not sure if dog grooming is the right career path for you? Here are some factors to consider to help you decide if pampering pooches is the best option for your future:

Experience: While not mandatory to become a dog groomer, having qualifications under your belt gives you the knowledge and confidence to apply for dog grooming jobs. But once you’ve completed your qualification, this doesn’t mean you’ll stop learning. You’ll continue to grow as a professional dog groomer long after you’ve qualified. The more clients you have, the more your confidence will improve.
Equipment is important: While technique is important, so is having great quality tools. Quality equipment can help you to deliver results that will keep clients happy. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive equipment on the market, you’ll need to invest in yourself. Clippers, shampoos, conditioners, shears and brushes can add up quickly, so make sure to budget for these.
Different coats have different needs: Dog coats vary greatly – from short coats to long. Dogs’ fur is important to regulate their temperature and protect their skin. With this in mind, each fur type needs to be groomed in a certain way. Understanding the differences in coats and requirements is essential for a dog groomer.
Accidents can happen: Whether you’re new to the dog grooming world, or have years of experience under your belt, accidents can happen. You might accidentally clip a dog’s skin, or get water in their ears and potentially cause an infection. It’s important to be honest with the client if this happens and let them know immediately. The best way to avoid this is to take your time. And if an accident does occur, make sure to act responsibly and professionally.

Get your dog grooming business insurance with Protectivity

Whether you run a dog grooming salon or work as a mobile dog groomer, having Dog Grooming Insurance in place can give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your work to the fullest. Your policy will include Public Liability Insurance, as well as Care, Custody and Control cover should accidental injury, illness or loss of an animal under your care occur.

No matter what kind of pet business you have, we’ve got you covered. We offer dog walking insurance, cover for pet sitters, groomers and more. Having quality, affordable cover in place can give you the reassurance that should the worst happen, you’ll have support there to put wrong to right. Get a quote today.

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12:04:34 GMT • 14 November 2024

5 of the Best Trimmers & Clippers for Barbers

By Steffi Cavaliere

30 December 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Cutting hair with trimmers or clippers may look simple from the outside, but there’s much more to it than meets the eye. As well as the skill and experience of the barber, there are also important differences in the equipment used, to ensure the customer gets the style they want every time. But with so many different styles and clippers to choose from, which are the best ones to buy?

In this guide, we’ll highlight what to look out for in the best trimmers for barbers across five common categories of haircut and pick out the top products on the market today.

Best clippers for skin fades

Skin fades are especially popular at the moment, meaning a good clipper needs to service a wide variety of different types of hair. A powerful motor that can deal with even the thickest and curliest hair is essential, as is a range of hair guard sizes to maximise the versatility of fades that can be offered.

Star product: Wahl 5 Star Cordless Magic Clip

These cordless clippers free up barbers to move around the customer’s head more freely, making it easier than ever for anyone to deliver pro-grade results. As one reviewer put it: “I feel like I’m a professional barber even though I’ve never cut hair before.”

Best clippers for thick hair

For cutting thick hair, power is just about everything. A lightweight trimmer that doesn’t have a gutsy motor just won’t be able to cut through very far, or for very long. Any trimmer that can combine high output with (if used cordless) strong battery life is ideal for these cuts.

Star product: Panasonic ER-SB40-K Cordless Hair Trimmer

This trimmer is actually designed for all parts of the body, so much so that Men’s Health gave it a Grooming Award for beard trimming. But it’s just as useful for head hair, with a motor capable of 9800 cuts per minute, and an adjustable dial that gives 19 different lengths without having to change the guard.

Best clippers for tapers

Tapers are long-standing popular haircuts, but demand precision from the barber and from the equipment. The ability to blend between different lengths is vital, as is versatility in the different lengths and combinations that can be achieved.

Star product: Wahl Super Taper

This taper-specific clipper is designed to deliver easy and precise performance every time, with an electromagnetic motor for extra power and four different attachable guards. Many reviewers praise the longevity of the product, saying that it lasts for several years, with one writing: “They cut cleanly, with no catching or dragging, and feel very solid and robust. Very highly recommended.”

Best clippers for buzz cuts and shaving heads

Very short buzz cuts or head-shaving often require a very different type of clipper because of the need to follow the contours of the customer’s head. Bigger blades are helpful in getting the cut done quickly (maximising barber profitability), while curved blades help with the contour issue, too.

Star product: Remington Quick Cut

This clipper may not look like much, but for buzz cuts specifically, it does the job brilliantly. The curved blade is big (but not too big so that accuracy isn’t compromised), and its portability makes it handy for mobile barbers. One review summed it up excellently: “The curved blade and ergonomic shape of this aren’t just gimmicks but actually help a lot to achieve an even result in the least amount of time.”

Best cordless clippers

Cordless clippers were generally sidestepped by professional barbers until recently, because they didn’t want to be compromised by a lack of battery life. But the technology has improved to make some of the leading products viable for commercial use.

Star product: Philips Norelco

We’ve already mentioned a number of top cordless clippers in this guide, but from a battery perspective, the Norelco stands out. Capable of two hours of use after just one hour of charging, its range of 24-length settings makes it a great all-rounder.

Can you use clippers on wet hair?

Technically speaking, yes you can. But in reality, you really should avoid using clippers on wet hair in the vast majority of cases. For starters, clippers are generally electric and so wet hair brings a high risk of shocking the customer (which could result in injury or a compensation claim). But clippers can easily become clogged up with hair that is wet, greasy, or even just very thick, reducing the performance of the clippers and the consistency of the cut applied.

There are only really a couple of exceptions to this rule: when wet hair has been thoroughly towelled prior to the cut, or when the hair being cut is already short to begin with. In both these cases, the risk of hair clogging up the clippers is minimised.

What does the lever do on clippers?

The lever on most barbers’ clippers allows the length of cut to be lengthened by half a size by adjusting the teeth. For example, if a guard for a size two is in place, the lever can be pushed up to make the size 2.5 instead. The same applies if there is no guard on at all, meaning customers can get a cut of size 0.5 instead of zero.

Get your barber business insurance with Protectivity

Whichever types of haircut you specialise in, and whichever of these best trimmers for barbers you use, getting good hairdressers insurance cover for your business is absolutely essential.

Protectivity provides good-quality, comprehensive cover for barber businesses, incorporating Public Liability in the event of a customer injury, Personal Accident cover, equipment cover, and much more. We can also include up to £1 million of Employers’ Liability insurance so that anyone you employ is protected too.

Our barber insurance policies are available for a small fee and can be paid monthly thanks to our flexible payment plans. Take a closer look and get a quote today.

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11:49:16 GMT • 14 January 2025

7 of the Best Hypnotherapy Training Courses

By Steffi Cavaliere

30 December 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi Cavaliere

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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Choosing the best hypnotherapy training for you depends on a number of factors, including location, time, whether or not you want to practice on clients, and cost. You may also need to consider whether you want to attend training in-person or online, and whether you prefer to focus on any specialist areas.

Below we’ve put together a list of some of the UK’s best hypnotherapist training providers, some of the best courses, and how much it might cost you to become a qualified hypnotherapist.

Hypnotherapist training providers

If you’re interested in becoming a certified hypnotherapist, you will likely want to consider a Hypnotherapy in Practice Diploma (HPD), which is only offered by providers accredited by the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH). An HPD is considered one of the most highly regarded qualifications a hypnotherapist can obtain and is suitable for those wanting to practice professionally.

In order to become an NCH-accredited training provider, there are a number of standards that must be met:

Minimum of 120 hours classroom teaching
Occupational competence as trainers and experienced practitioners
Learning programme covers all the HPD outcomes
Schools provide the appropriate level of teaching, support, tutoring and assessment to enable all students to gain the NCH (HPD) if they choose to

In the UK there are currently more than 40 accredited hypnotherapy training providers. Below is just a small selection you may want to consider before you begin your training.

Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy School

With more than 30 schools across the UK and beyond, Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy School shouldn’t be too far from any students interested in practicing hypnotherapy.

Hypnotherapy courses are suitable for beginners or those with experience in a similar field, and cover everything from the basics to setting up your own business. Learning is done over 10 modules and involves 120 hours of classroom sessions. It can be done full-time or over weekends for those in existing employment.

Costs are £2,950 in full or £295 per month.

UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts and Sciences

The UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts and Sciences is based in the Southwest and offers a 450-hour course that is taken part-time over the course of a year. A number of experienced tutors work with students to provide them with in-depth knowledge and prepare them for a career in hypnotherapy.

The cost of the course is £2,675.

The Quest Institute

The Quest Institute, based in Cornwall, provides three courses including an 11-month hypnotherapy diploma and an 8-month course to become a Cognitive Hypnotherapy Master Practitioner. Learning is done through a combination of in-person sessions and video conferencing.

There is a variety of payment options available and the total costs are approximately £3,525.

Hypnotherapist qualifications and training courses

As we’ve already highlighted, if you’re looking for a highly respected and regarded qualification, a Hypnotherapy in Practice Diploma will enable you to pursue a career in the field.

However, there is a range of certifications, diplomas and higher-education qualifications you may be interested in to expand your knowledge so you can offer the best possible service to your clients.

Certificates

Certificates are often introductory and will cover the basics such as post-grad certificates and certificates in personal and professional development.

Hypnotherapy Practitioner Course

The Hypnotherapy Practitioner Course at the Centre of Excellence is a 15-module, 150-hour course that is self-directed, and upon completion rewards students with two certificates. Modules cover a variety of topics including stress management, stopping smoking and suggestibility tests.

Learning is all home-based, and the cost is £147.

Certificate in Hypnotherapy

The Certificate in Hypnotherapy from Chrysalis Courses Online is the perfect place to start for those new to Hypnotherapy. Training takes a minimum of four weeks to complete, with three modules covering an introduction to hypnotherapy, knowledge development, and successful relaxation. Assessments are coursework based and there is a useful forum so students can interact.

The course costs £349 or six instalments of £58.16.

Diplomas

Diplomas are the next stage, and include diplomas, post-grad diplomas and medical diplomas. Students should study for a diploma if they wish to become qualified, professional hypnotherapists.

Hypnotherapy Diploma Course

The UK College of Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy offers a great introduction to those new to the field and teaches future hypnotherapists 35 techniques. It also ensures that 50% of the course is dedicated to practical exercises.

Costs start from £129.59 per month for online self-directed learning, or £199.50 per month for full training including one-to-one sessions.

Diploma in Advanced Clinical Hypnosis and Mind Therapies

In Scotland, The Scottish Academy of Hypnosis and Mind Therapies offers a Diploma in Advanced Clinical Hypnosis and Mind Therapies. Courses start at various times throughout the year and are classroom based. Modules cover how to approach meeting the client, working with anxiety and bad habits.

The course costs £2,600 and is taken one weekend per month over 10 months.

Higher education

While there are no hypnotherapy-specific higher-education courses, if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in a field related to hypnotherapy, including a BSC (Bachelor of Science), a MSc (Masters degree), or a doctorate, you may want to consider:

Psychology
Counselling
Psychotherapy
Psychiatry
Social care
Nursing

However, while a higher-education qualification will equip you with specific and in-depth knowledge, it isn’t necessary in order to become a fully qualified hypnotherapist.

Cost of becoming a qualified hypnotherapist

As we’ve already highlighted above, the cost of becoming a fully qualified hypnotherapist in the UK is between £2,500 and £3,500. Many training providers also offer a range of monthly payment plans to help you spread the cost over the duration of the course (with some also requiring a deposit). Courses will usually take around one year to complete.

Next steps after qualifying

Once you’ve completed approximately 120 – 150 hours of training and received your diploma, you’re qualified to begin working with clients.

One consideration is whether you will want to be self-employed and source and treat clients yourself, or work with an existing business (for example, a health spa). There are many advantages and disadvantages to both, and neither is the better choice – it depends on what you want out of your new career as a qualified hypnotherapist.

If you’re looking to become a self-employed hypnotherapist but you’re not sure where to start, an additional course on how to set up a business may be required. However, many hypnotherapy courses do go into detail on how to set up a hypnotherapy business and how to find clients.

Get your hypnotherapist insurance with Protectivity

Are you a qualified hypnotherapist, either new to the field or with years of experience, working with clients? Get your hypnotherapist insurance or Counselling insurance with Protectivity for a small monthly fee.

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