Category: Business

11:44:59 GMT • 14 January 2025

Ten Steps to Starting a Personal Training Business

11 November 2022

•

8 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Offering personal training is one of the most popular career options among fitness-minded people today, especially among the young. Whilst gyms all over the country employ PTs on a full-time or part-time basis, there is also plenty of opportunity for you to do it alone. Start your own personal training business and build your own success.

In this guide, we’ll highlight everything you need to know if you’re starting a personal training business, including a ten-step checklist featuring all the essentials.

Why should I explore personal training as a career?

Personal training can be extremely rewarding, because you can help other people achieve their goals, whether it’s rehabilitation from injury, losing weight, or reaching performance targets from running a parkrun to running a marathon! And by getting actively involved in the sessions yourself, it’s also a great way of keeping yourself fit and healthy.

Running a personal training business also brings the reward and flexibility of being your own boss, and having a direct influence on your success and earning potential over time.

How much can a self-employed personal trainer earn?

Earnings from personal training can vary significantly, depending on your level of experience and the area you work in. The good news, however, is that unlike a salaried full-time position with a gym, your earning potential is theoretically limitless, depending on how many hours you work and how many clients you can reasonably fit in. Generally speaking, most personal trainers take in between £20 and £40 per hour, but those who attract high-end clientele or work in areas where PTs are sought after can earn a good chunk more than this.

Starting a personal training business checklist

If you’re wondering how to set up a personal training business, there’s a bit more to it than you might think. But with a bit of hard work and organisation, you’ll be up and running before you know it. This ten-step list covers the basics:

Qualifications

There is no legal requirement to be officially qualified in order to work as a personal trainer or operate a personal training business. However, it is strongly recommended, because it demonstrates clear credentials that customers can trust, and you’ll likely improve your knowledge and skills in the training you take to get those qualifications. There are lots of courses available from many different providers: you should ideally look for a course accredited by Ofqual to obtain a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Personal Training.

Registrations

Connected to the previous point, getting officially registered with a recognised personal training body can add extra gravitas when you’re trying to convince potential clients that you’re the personal trainer for them. There are two key bodies here: the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

More importantly, many insurance providers will look for at least one of these registrations when you’re applying for an insurance policy, and may refuse you cover if you don’t have one. Similarly, some gym chains will insist on registration for any self-employed personal trainers wishing to operate from their facilities.

Market research

Personal training is a broader profession than you might think, and so it’s important to diversify what you offer. For example, do you want to focus on strength and conditioning for amateur sportspeople? Do you want to provide sports and exercise nutrition services along with exercise, for those who want to get fit and lose weight? Do you want to focus on specific areas of the body to help with rehabilitation?

These are just three of the avenues you could pursue. While you should conduct some research to find out which types of training are under-served in your local area, you should also prioritise specialities that you’re passionate about and would enjoy working with.

Business model

This is probably the biggest ‘how long is a piece of string’ question you’ll encounter: how much should you charge? There are so many variables that will influence this: your experience, the type of personal training you’re offering, your overheads if working from a gym, whether you offer discounts for repeat business, and so on. The best starting point is to check out other similar trainers in your area, find out how much they’re charging and price yourself around that point (or maybe slightly below so you can attract some clients to get up and running).

Location

Working out where you’ll be offering your training is critical. You may want to operate from a local gym, in which case you can pursue an agreement with them: for a per-session or monthly fee, you can access the gym with your clients, and they will cover all your overheads. However, make sure you check in detail which services are covered and which ones aren’t – particularly insurance.

Depending on the type of personal training you’re offering, you may also want to work from a studio, from the home of a client, or from outdoor spaces like parks. In any case, you’ll need to make sure you have the right insurance cover for the environment (more on that below).

Legal requirements

As with any business, you’ll need to get organised from a legal standpoint for self-employment, and register with the appropriate government bodies. If you’re just starting out, then it’s best to run as a sole trader, which is the simplest type of business entity. However, you should be aware that your liabilities are unlimited if you run into any debts, so be careful when spending money on start-up costs. As you grow, registering as a limited company may make more sense from an accountancy and tax perspective, especially if you get to the point that you start employing other people.

Finance and accounting

Opening a business bank account is essential, even if you’re operating as a sole trader, because it means that your professional and personal incomings and outgoings are kept fully separate. This makes your accounting and tax returns much easier, and makes things more transparent and professional-looking for customers.

You may also want to consider hiring the services of a professional accountant. While the finances of a personal training business should be relatively simple, they can help take care of complexities like self-assessment and payslips.

Branding

With most of the regulatory and professional requirements in place, and with a sound idea of your business model, you can then go on to get your name out into the local area. A good place to start is by establishing some branding for your business, in terms of logo, design of website and promotional assets, and even your tone of voice in how you speak to your target audience. There are many creative businesses around that affordably provide these services for small businesses, ensuring your message resonates with potential customers – especially on social media.

Marketing and advertising

Speaking of social media, that’s just one of the methods you can use to reach out to prospective clients. Try and think outside the box: every personal trainer in the world will be posting about fitness and achieving goals, so try and inject some humour and informality where possible to build an emotional connection.

Don’t neglect more traditional forms of advertising, either. Flyers or posters in the gym where you work can still generate customers, as can going door-to-door with your marketing materials. Encouraging friends and family to mention your business through word of mouth is also a great way to get started.

Insurance

You never know what might happen in a personal training business – especially as there’s always a risk of accident or injury involved in any physical exercise. That’s why getting insurance cover is an absolute must, whatever training you’re planning to provide and wherever you’re planning to operate. if you own a gym, you’ll need gym liability insurance. As well as making sure you aren’t left out of pocket should the unexpected occur, it also gives both you and your client peace of mind that they’re adequately protected.

Get covered for your personal training with Protectivity

At Protectivity, we have years of experience providing personal training cover for businesses just like yours. That way, your business can grow and succeed with confidence, without you or your clients risking financial loss if an incident occurs. Our cover includes:

– Public Liability of up to £10million, covering claims, damage and injury, including to members of the public or the gym you work from

– Professional Indemnity, should an injured client lodge a claim against you

– Cover for all your equipment, with up to £500 of cover included free of charge

– Optional personal accident insurance that prevents you suffering financially if an injury on the job means you can’t work

To find out more, including just how affordable our personal training business insurance can be, take a closer look at our insurance for personal trainers.

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11:44:41 GMT • 14 January 2025

How Much Does a Therapist Cost in the UK?

9 November 2022

•

4 mins read

Contributors

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

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As a therapist, you may be wondering how much you should charge your clients. It depends on a number of factors, including your level of experience, whether you’re a private therapist, whether you’re self-employed, your area of expertise and your whereabouts in the UK.

Generally, private therapists in the UK can charge anything from £40-150 for a 50-60 minute session. The greater your level of experience and the more specialist your area of expertise, the more you’re able to charge. The cost will also depend on any overheads you may have, such as business premises (including expenses like rent and utilities) or additional staff (such as a receptionist). For example, a therapist based in a central London practice will charge more than a home-based therapist who operates solely online.

Another variable is the number of hours a therapist works. A therapist may approximately have 30 patients per week, with the rest of their time focusing on planning sessions, writing notes and developing their skills and knowledge with additional training and certifications. As a result, their rates may be higher to account for the time spent when not one-on-one with clients.

Of course, a therapist will also want to take home a liveable salary as well. So with all these variables in mind, how much does a therapist cost in the UK? We’ve taken data available on Payscale, Talent.com, Indeed and Prospects.ac.uk to work out the average salary and average hourly earnings for therapists in the UK.

Average salary of a therapist by region in the UK

The average cost of a therapist varies widely by region. Below are the average salaries of therapists (across a wide range of specialties) across the UK, and the equivalent hourly amount based on spending time with clients for 30 hours per week.

These amounts don’t take into account experience and don’t include overheads such as rent, utilities, travel, public liability insurance and other staff wages. Because of this, therapists with additional overheads will naturally cost more – sometimes much more depending on those overheads. With this in mind, you may expect to add approximately £20-£100 to the below hourly rates.

London

Approximately £38,656 per year or £26.84 per hour.

South West

Approximately £30,385 per year or £21.10 per hour.

South East

Approximately £31,594 per year or £21.94 per hour.

Midlands

Approximately £38,551 per year or £26.77 per hour.

East

Approximately £39,360 per year or £27.33 per hour.

North East

Approximately £37,158 per year or £25.80 per hour.

North West

Approximately £38,498 per year or £26.73 per hour.

Scotland

Approximately £19,396 per year or £13.47 per hour.

Wales

Approximately £36,010 per year or £25.01 per hour.

Average cost of a therapist by specialism

So, how much does a therapist cost depending on specialism? While the average hourly rate of a therapist can vary based on region, costs are even more varied when specialism is taken into account. While all therapists require skill, training and dedication, some require more than others. As a result, some therapists will be able to charge more. However, this can fluctuate depending on skill, experience, reputation and, once again, overheads.

Below are approximations for the cost of a therapist across various specialisms. Like above, £20-100 can be added to the below hourly costs depending on experience and overheads.

Massage Therapists

Approximately £23,945 per year or £16.63 per hour.

Physical Therapists

Approximately £27,650 per year or £19.20 per hour.

Occupational Therapists

Approximately £28,412 per year or £19.73 per hour.

Respiratory Therapists

Approximately £29,000 per year or £20.14 per hour.

Mental Health Therapists

Approximately £27,565 per year or £19.14 per hour.

Beauty Therapists

Approximately £19,975 per year or £13.87 per hour.

Radiation Therapists

Approximately £27,186 per year or £18.88 per hour.

Clinical Therapists

Approximately £35,000 per year or £24.31 per hour.

Paediatric Therapists

Approximately £40,057 per year or £27.82 per hour.

Behavioural Therapists

Approximately £38,890 per year or £27.01 per hour.

Speech Therapists

Approximately £26,026 per year or £18.07 per hour.

Music Therapists

Approximately £29,297 per year or £20.35 per hour.

CBT Therapists

Approximately £42,945 per year or £29.82 per hour.

Get your therapy business insurance from £3.14 a month

Now that you have more of an idea as to how much a therapist earns and charges, why not secure counselling business insurance? Get your therapy business insurance from £3.14 a month.

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11:44:14 GMT • 14 January 2025

5 of the Best Online Reiki Training Courses

9 November 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

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

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Reiki is a gentle yet powerful holistic therapy that promotes healing, deep relaxation, and overall wellbeing. Originating in Japan, Reiki works on the principle of channelling universal life force energy through the hands, encouraging balance in the mind, body and spirit. With its increasing popularity across the UK, many people are now looking to train in Reiki – whether for personal healing, to support loved ones, or to pursue a professional path in holistic therapy.

If you’re interested in learning Reiki, this guide will help you understand what to expect from the training and highlight some of the best Reiki courses currently available across the UK.

What are the principles of Reiki?

When training in Reiki, students are introduced to a set of guiding principles intended to support emotional clarity, compassion and spiritual growth. These are:

Just for today, do not worry – Shin Pai Suna
Just for today, do not be angry – Ikaru Na
Be grateful – Kan Sha Shi Te
Be diligent in your work – Gyo O Hage Me
Be kind to others – Hito Ni Shinsetsu Ni

These affirmations are often repeated as daily meditations to support personal development alongside hands-on healing.

How easy is Reiki to learn?

Reiki is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background or academic experience. No prior knowledge of medicine or therapy is required. What’s most important is approaching your training with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a desire to grow spiritually or emotionally.

Who teaches Reiki courses?

Reiki is taught by a certified Reiki Master – a practitioner who has completed all three levels of Reiki training. Your teacher should be properly qualified and experienced in both giving treatments and teaching. When choosing a course, always ensure the instructor is accredited by a recognised Reiki association (such as the UK Reiki Federation or CNHC) or has a clearly traceable lineage to traditional Reiki teaching.

Types of Reiki Training Levels

Reiki training is traditionally structured into three levels or ‘degrees’, each building on the last. A key part of the training is the attunement or Reiju, a ceremonial initiation where the student’s energy channels are opened to Reiki. This is what sets Reiki apart from other therapies.

As you progress through each of the three levels, building on the knowledge gained in each, you will gain the skills and experience necessary to become a Master.

Level 1 – Shoden

This is the entry-level course and focuses on self-healing. Students receive four attunements and are taught how to give Reiki to themselves, family and friends. Training is often delivered over a weekend, typically taking 8–12 hours. This level is ideal for those who want to practise Reiki informally.

Level 2 – Okuden

Level 2 deepens the student’s knowledge and introduces distance healing and energy techniques for treating others professionally. Students receive further attunements and are taught to use Reiki symbols. After this level, practitioners can often obtain insurance and begin offering Reiki as a complementary therapy.

Level 3 – Shinpiden (Reiki Master)

This is the most advanced level, traditionally offered by invitation but now widely accessible. It includes the final Master attunement, deeper spiritual practices, and guidance on teaching Reiki to others. Some training programmes also include an apprenticeship period with a Master.

Best Reiki Training Courses

Typically, some of the best Reiki training courses are completed in person. The first and second degrees will usually take 8-12 hours, and are undertaken over a weekend.

However, there are certain aspects of Reiki training that can also be completed online. Below are a selection of some of the best Reiki courses available across the UK.

#1 Gaia School of Natural Health

Based in the Wirral, Gaia School of Natural Health has been teaching students various practices since 2008. In Reiki, you can learn level 1 and level 2, and level 3 for those looking to become a Reiki Master. The school also offers Reiki development days for those who want to deepen their knowledge.

Reiki courses at Gaia School of Natural Health take between two and three days to complete and prices start from £195 for level 1.

#2 The Reiki School

Located in the South of England, The Reiki School offers a wide selection of intimate courses so you can connect closely with your teacher. Courses include level 1 through to Master, as well as introductory kids courses. There are also specialist courses for those who have already completed levels 1 and 2, including Animal Reiki.

Courses take between one and three days to complete, with costs starting from £150 for the first degree.

#3 Reiki Mastery

Reiki Mastery Academy is a leading provider of accredited Reiki training, recognised by the prestigious Complementary Medical Association (CMA). Founded by British Reiki Master and healer Hilary Kingston, who brings over 20 years of experience—including treating clients from royalty to elite athletes—the Academy delivers professional, diploma-level Reiki courses online.

#4 Olettesa Holistic Therapies

Olettesa Holistic Therapies can be found in Cheshire and offers a number of Reiki training courses, including levels 1 and 2 as well as a Reiki Accredited Practitioner Qualification. Courses are taken over a weekend and costs start from £120.

#5 Centre of Excellence

For those who aren’t able to attend a Reiki course in person, the Centre of Excellence has a range of Reiki courses that can be taken online. Courses include level 1 and 2 diplomas and an Animal Reiki diploma.

Online Reiki courses are self-directed, so learning can be done as and when you have the time to do it. The cost of courses with the Centre of Excellence start from £127.

The benefits of Reiki training

Reiki is a deeply relaxing and restorative practice, both to receive and to learn. Some of the key benefits of Reiki include:

Promotes harmony and emotional balance
Encourages deeper relaxation and better sleep
Supports physical and emotional healing
Clears the mind and enhances focus
May relieve pain and tension
Facilitates personal and spiritual growth

In fact, a study in Turkey in 2015 that even 30 minutes of Reiki per day significantly reduced pain in cancer patients, highlighting its potential therapeutic impact.

Whether you plan to become a professional practitioner or simply want to bring more peace and balance into your life, training in Reiki can be a transformative experience.

Insure your Reiki practice with our specialist Reiki insurance cover

Looking to work with clients and students after becoming a Reiki Master? Insure your Reiki business after you qualify with our specialist Reiki insurance cover.

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16:43:01 BST • 16 June 2025

Best Fundraising Ideas for Sports Clubs

2 November 2022

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Sports clubs play a valuable role in the lives of millions of people all over the country. As well as building friendships and helping their communities, they also encourage people to live more active lifestyles, improving physical and mental health as a result.

Fundraising is a vital part of ensuring that sports clubs can continue to function, thrive and achieve the goals that players and staff alike work so hard for. This guide highlights some of the best fundraising ideas for sports clubs that you may not have considered.

Why is fundraising so important?

The vast majority of sports clubs are made up of, and run by, volunteers who do it for the love of their respective sports. This often means that they run on very small budgets, so what may seem like relatively small fundraising efforts – or small, unexpected bills – can have a major impact on their futures.

That’s why it’s so important for sports clubs to leave no stone unturned in exploring ways to make money. Every pound earned could go towards better kit and equipment, paying for team trips and tours across the country and abroad, repaying any debts incurred, or making improvements to pitches and facilities.

Good ideas for fundraising

Of course, there are many fundraising ideas that are part and parcel of running a sports team: pitchside advertising, kit sponsorship, website ad space and programme sales, for example. The following ideas take things a little further and consider fundraising that will produce one-off rather than regular income:

Race and quiz nights

One of the simplest and cheapest events to run is a competition night in your clubhouse, or at whichever pub is your usual meeting point. A race night gives participants the opportunity to ‘bet’ on filmed races and win either cash or spot prizes. Quiz nights, meanwhile, can cost as little as a few pounds to put together, and are especially popular in winter when people are looking for cheap indoor social activities. In either case, you should use some of the takings to provide prizes, and keep the rest as raised funds for your club.

Community activities

Getting involved in events taking place in your local area can get your club’s fundraising in front of a wider audience and build goodwill among residents. Stalls at summer fetes and festivals are good ways of attracting donations and need just a few players or staff to volunteer. As a way of attracting more interest, consider how you can get the public involved in playing your sport, such as a penalty game for football clubs, or a putting challenge for golf clubs.

Participation events

Connected to the previous point, consider holding your own open day, where people of all ages and abilities can come and sample your sport for themselves. It can be daunting for new people to enter a team environment full of existing friendships, so inviting people to events in exchange for a donation can help drum up interest and get you new players. And if you can get local street food vendors, music acts and microbreweries to take part, you might find yourself with your own annual fundraising festival!

Team challenges

Setting your team and coaches a real challenge that puts their minds and bodies to the limit can gain real interest, publicity, and donations from people in your area. This could be something as simple as giving up alcohol or volunteering to pack shopping bags at the local supermarket, or something as grand as running marathons, climbing mountains, or cycling long distances. The only limits are your initial outlay and your ambition!

Grant applications

Remember that raising funds doesn’t have to rely on the charity or interest of the community. Sports clubs are eligible for a wide range of grants, provided by public bodies to encourage healthier lifestyles. Check regularly to see if you’re eligible for the likes of Sport England small grants, the Community Asset Fund, and National Lottery funding.

Cover your sports club for less with Protectivity Insurance

As well as proactive fundraising, good insurance cover is just as essential for sports clubs up and down the country. Protectivity’s comprehensive sports club insurance options include public liability, employers’ liability, equipment cover and clubhouse cover, giving players and staff alike peace of mind. Combined with expert support and available from just £42 a year, our cover plays a key part in keeping people safe and securing your club’s finances.

Take a closer look at all of our sports club insurance options sports club insurance quote.

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11:43:53 GMT • 14 January 2025

3 of the Best Dog Grooming Training Courses for Beginners

26 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

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

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If you’re a dog lover, a career in dog grooming sounds like the dream, right? Not only will you be able to spend time with pooches of all shapes and sizes, but you’ll also get the satisfaction of making them look their very best.

While mandatory qualifications aren’t needed to become a dog groomer, completing a dog grooming course will help you stand out from the crowd. Here, we cover the best courses for beginners to learn the tricks of the trade and leave you with a certificate or diploma under your belt to impress potential clients.

Dog grooming training providers

Where you choose to complete your training is entirely up to you. You can obtain your dog grooming qualification from a college, a specialist training provider, or through City & Guilds.

City & Guilds

City & Guilds provide services to training providers, employers, and trainees across a variety of sectors, for people to progress in their careers and have the skills to fulfil their duties in the workplace. Their qualifications and apprenticeships are highly regarded by employers across the world. You can study both Level 2 and Level 3 dog grooming training with City & Guilds.

Colleges

Several colleges across the UK offer dog grooming courses suitable for beginners, but you may need to attend a college that specialises in agriculture and animal welfare. Colleges such as Moulton College in Northamptonshire and Capel Manor College in London offer courses to help you on your journey to becoming a professional dog groomer.

Specialist dog grooming training providers

Alternatively, you can undergo dog grooming training through a specialist provider. Providers like Four Paws Groom School, located in Cheshire, Kent and Herefordshire, offer courses to suit every level of experience. You can learn how to groom your own dog in one day or complete a 30-day iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in dog grooming.

Dog grooming qualifications and training courses

When it comes to pampering pooches, you’ll want to make sure you do the best job possible. While having a dog grooming qualification isn’t essential to kickstarting your dog grooming career, it can help you promote your service and could make the difference in someone trusting you with their dog or going elsewhere. Here are some respected dog grooming qualifications and training courses for you to consider:

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants

Looking for a course to introduce you to the art of dog grooming? A Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Artists is your go-to training course if you’re looking to work in the dog grooming industry. The course will be run by a City & Guilds qualified groomer/tutor.

To earn the qualification, you’ll need to complete several units, some of which are optional and some mandatory, including:

– Cleaning and bathing dogs

– Controlling and restraining animals

– Handling payments from clients

Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming

Once you’ve completed the Level 2 Certificate, you may want to further your training with the Level 3 Certificate in Introductory Dog Grooming. Once completed, you can progress in a career as a professional dog groomer.

The Level 3 certificate is suitable for those who have experience working in the industry or have completed a related qualification such as the Level 2 certificate.

To achieve this certification, you’ll do a practical demonstration of what you’ve learnt or an assignment, as well as a written test to prove your knowledge.

Achieving this qualification will show future employers or customers that you have all the technical skills and knowledge needed to practice dog grooming to a high standard. If you’re looking to stand out against the crowd of dog groomers, having training under your belt is a great way to demonstrate your dedication to and passion for dog grooming.

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming

After completing the Level 2 Dog Grooming Assistant certification, you can progress your knowledge and skills further to become a professional dog groomer, by studying for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.

The diploma will provide you with the practical skills to professionally style dogs with all types of coats, as well as those who need adjustments to the grooming process due to health conditions. You’ll also receive all the training needed to ensure you’re fully prepared to work as a professional dog groomer, in line with legislation and welfare requirements.

If you’re looking for training that will give you the practical skills and knowledge needed to work as a professional dog groomer, completing the Level 3 diploma is a great option. Once completed, you could go on to work for a business, or as a self-employed dog groomer.

Costs of dog grooming training

How much your dog grooming training will cost will depend on the course you choose to study.

Absolutely Animals are pet grooming specialists based in London, they offer several types of dog grooming courses, including City & Guilds qualifications. They price the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants at £900, and the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming at £980.

Just4Paws offer an all-inclusive City & Guilds dog grooming course, with plenty of hands-on experience with a variety of dog breeds. Through this course, you’ll complete both the Level 2 and Level 3 City & Guilds qualifications, as well as a professional pet first aid course and salon training. This is a 30-day course, as well as a minimum of 150 hours of home study, priced at £5,650 part time with full time options also available.

How much these qualifications are will vary by salon and provider, so you may want to compare courses across different providers to get the best price.

Next steps after qualifying

With the right experience and qualifications, you could become a self-employed dog groomer and work from home or become a mobile dog groomer who visits owners’ homes. Alternatively, you could open your own salon or teach dog grooming classes. Being a dog groomer is a rewarding career where no two days are the same. If you’re an animal lover who is seeking a career that doesn’t feel like work, dog grooming could be the perfect choice for you.

Get your dog grooming insurance today from Protectivity

Are you a dog groomer who wants reassurance at work, should something go wrong? Perhaps you run your own dog grooming salon or operate on a mobile basis. Whatever your circumstances, having an affordable, quality Dog Grooming Insurance policy in place can give you the peace of mind that should disaster strike, you have the support you need to put things right. Your insurance policy will include a range of benefits such as Public Liability Insurance and cover for any specialist equipment you use at work. Get a quote today for dog grooming insurance and put your mind at ease.

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Last updated by

11:43:24 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Set Up a Sports Coaching Business in the UK

24 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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Sports coaching has gained real popularity as a business and career option in recent years. Being a sports coach is rewarding, helps you keep fit, supports you play an active role in your local community, and allows you to build a successful life for yourself.

Because it’s so popular, it isn’t easy to create an enterprise that succeeds long-term, but it’s by no means impossible. In this guide, we’ll explore all the basics you need to know around setting up a sports coaching business, from qualifications and funding, to marketing and insurance.

Why look at starting a sports coaching business?

There’s lots to enjoy from starting your own sports coaching business. To begin with, you’ll be your own boss, and the good decisions you make and the hard work you put in will have a direct influence on your own success. You’ll get to work in a sport (or sports) that you love, impart your wisdom on keen people who feel the same way, and get to savour their achievements as they reach their goals.

From a business point of view, sports coaching businesses can get off the ground relatively quickly and with a small financial outlay. This means you don’t need to take huge risks getting into debt or making big investments, and you can gradually build as you go.

Key considerations when setting up a sports coaching business

You may think that starting out with a sports coaching business just needs some kit, a park and a few willing customers. Well, it’s not quite that simple, but every challenge along the way can be addressed. In particular, you should ensure that these seven areas are covered off:

Qualifications and credentials

Technically speaking, there is no legal requirement to be qualified to operate as a sports coach. However, getting the right credentials is strongly recommended for two reasons: it helps you build a solid reputation and because many insurers won’t cover you without them.

Start by exploring the official qualifications for your chosen sport (the Sport & Recreation Alliance has a list of all the fully accredited bodies). You’ll likely need at least Level 2 to run coaching sessions yourself, and Level 3 if dealing with serious competitive athletes. Also, don’t forget to find out if you need a DBS check, which is very likely if you intend to coach children.

Business model

Before you start, you should work out exactly what you want to do with the business, and that involves asking yourself a lot of questions. Which sport (or sports) do you want to coach? Are you coaching by yourself, or will you hire other coaches? Will you be coaching adults, children or both? Where will you provide your coaching? What is your ultimate long-term aim, either financially or in terms of your own personal achievement? Answering these questions can help you establish a solid business model, and market research can help you work out how viable it’s likely to be.

Initial budget

With that business model in place, you can then assess the level of investment you need to get up and running. You’ll need appropriate kit and equipment to run sessions, especially for sports where your customers may not be able to keep or bring their own. You’ll need to fund associated costs like insurance (more on that later), work out how you’ll manage with transport of yourself and your equipment, and predict venue hire costs (such as a football pitch if you’re a football coach).

Accounting and legal considerations

As with any business, there are certain regulatory and financial requirements you’ll need to comply with. First of all, you should have a business bank account that keeps income and expenditure separate from your own finances, and you should keep fully up-to-date with financial records at all times. You will also need to register either as a sole trader or a limited company with Companies House and submit tax returns (and pay taxes) to HMRC each year. If you don’t feel confident enough to look after these matters, look at hiring the services of a professional accountant to do it for you.

Marketing and advertising

There’s plenty to consider in how you present your business and how you get yourself noticed by potential customers. You’ll need a name for your business, and some corporate branding (many small creative agencies specialise in this work for small businesses). With this in place, you can then develop a website and social media channels to gain interest and consider appealing and regular content that will gain views: writing a blog on your website and promoting it via social media is a good place to start.

Client referrals

Given that there are so many sports coaching businesses vying for attention through advertising and social media, you shouldn’t neglect more traditional ways of marketing like word-of-mouth. Getting a recommendation from a friend, relative or colleague is still hugely powerful in convincing a prospective customer to look at a business, so it remains a great way to expand your customer base. Offering referral discounts to existing customers can encourage them to proactively spread the word and get your name out there in the community.

Insurance

One thing that you absolutely mustn’t overlook for your sports coaching business is insurance. That’s because you never know what might happen next and what you might have to deal with: an accident or injury that sidelines you for a period of time; equipment that’s lost, damaged or stolen; or even an incident involving one of your customers that results in them lodging a compensation claim against you. A comprehensive insurance policy takes care of every eventuality, protecting you against potential financial loss or business disruption.

Get sports coaching insurance with Protectivity

Whatever sport you’re coaching, it’s vital that you have good-quality insurance in place for every eventuality. At Protectivity, we’ve been insuring sports coaches and sports coaching businesses like yours for the past 30 years, and we offer competitive, flexible rates. Our range of policies incorporate public liability, professional indemnity, participant injury cover, equipment cover and personal accident insurance.

With Protectivity, you can have peace of mind that your business is protected and give your customers reassurance that they can train and achieve their goals safely. Take a closer look at our sports coaching insurance options.

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11:43:08 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Become a Dog Groomer?

21 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

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

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Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and for many people, there’s no lengths to which they won’t go to keep their treasured pooch fit, healthy and pampered.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that dog grooming is booming. All over the country, enterprising people are taking full advantage of the surge in demand for grooming and related activities. So, if you love dogs, you love taking care of them and you’re looking for a career opportunity, there’s never been a better time to become a skilled, trained groomer.

In this guide, we’ll look at all the key qualifications for dog grooming you can get, the most important skills you’ll need, salary expectations, and why you shouldn’t overlook dog grooming insurance.

What qualifications for dog grooming are required?

There is no official legal requirement to gain any dog grooming qualifications. However, that doesn’t mean to say that it can’t be extremely valuable to get them, as it makes it more likely that you can get a job with a dog grooming company or attract more customers if you decide to go down the self-employed route.

If looking at dog grooming courses for beginners, then expect to take between one and three months to get a recognised City & Guilds qualification, either at Level 2 or Level 3. There are many different courses available, and we recommend finding one that is fully accredited with the PIF (Pet Industry Federation). That will give you the best chance of getting the training you need.

For less formal support, training and education, it may also be worth exploring what the British Dog Groomers’ Association (also part of the PIF) has to offer.

How much money do dog groomers make?

If you’re just starting out in the dog grooming world, then you’ll most likely be employed as a junior or apprentice with an established business. According to the National Careers Service, dog groomers will typically start on relatively low wages, but can work their way up to around £20,000 per year in time.

Where you can start to earn a lot more money is when you have the experience and skills to branch out on your own and go self-employed. Your earnings will then be tied to how much you charge per hour, less tax and operating expenses. In the UK at present, typical rates for freelance dog groomers generally run at around £20-30 per hour, prices varying depending on location, the size and condition of each dog, and its general temperament. However, it’s entirely possible to earn substantially more than this: top-quality groomers are known to charge as much as £80 an hour.

You should also be aware that most owners take their dogs for grooming at evenings and weekends because they’re at work during the day, and so you should expect to work less sociable hours as a matter of routine.

What skills are needed for dog grooming?

Dog grooming is a very specific job that demands a certain level of skills. Most importantly, you need the right attitude: it can be a decidedly unglamorous job and not every day will be like Crufts.

Of course, pets will misbehave. You may well get bitten, and they may well go to the toilet on you, so you’ll need the right mentality to keep dogs calm and shrug off any incidents. You’ll also need to feel comfortable around other people’s pets, and comfortable communicating with demanding owners: sometimes it isn’t always the dogs that are highly strung…

If you’re self-employed, you’ll also have lots of responsibilities to consider from a business perspective, including understanding typical costs. For example, you’ll need to build a compelling website full of high-quality images and videos of your work and create a presence on social media so you become known in your area and develop a following. You’ll also have a number of administrative duties to fulfil, such as registering and self-assessing your tax to HMRC, organising your schedule, managing your finances and expenses, and arranging good-quality insurance cover.

Why is dog grooming insurance important?

If a dog owner comes to you and wants you to groom their dog, they will have the basic expectation that you will care for their dog as much as they do. This means behaving with the very highest standards of diligence and professionalism. However, no human being is perfect, and sometimes things can, and will, go wrong.

It’s in these situations that having professional dog grooming insurance in place is absolutely vital, especially one that is tailored to the specifics of your work. You should look for a comprehensive policy that brings together many different types of cover, including (but not necessarily limited to):

– Public Liability Insurance: if you accidentally injure someone or damage property in the course of your work, this cover takes care of any legal costs incurred if you find yourself in court as a result

– Care, Custody and Control: if an animal under your care is lost, becomes ill or is injured, this type of insurance covers any compensation that becomes due to the owner

– Specialist Equipment: your valuable equipment, from grooming tables to cutting kit, can all be covered in the event of loss, theft or damage. If you’re intending to operate as a mobile groomer, you should ensure your vehicle is adequately covered, too

Get dog grooming insurance with Protectivity

At Protectivity, we provide a variety of comprehensive packages for every type of dog groomer at every level of experience. Our pet business insurance includes public liability cover, protection for up to £30,000 of specialist equipment, and up to £100,000 of Care, Custody and Control cover, it can deliver reassurance and confidence for you and owners alike.

Take a closer look at all of our dog grooming insurance options here.

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11:42:52 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Ask for Event Sponsorship

4 October 2022

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...

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If you’re planning or hosting an event, have you considered looking for sponsorship? Whether it’s a private, public or commercial event, sponsorship can grow demand, visibility or attendance to support your efforts and make the occasion one to remember.

This guide gives you all the information you need to learn how to: get event sponsorship, identify opportunities for sponsorship and find the right sponsorship for your event.

What is event sponsorship?

Event sponsorship is when an organisation or individual provides financial assistance in return for promotion. Sponsorship comes in several different ways, which can be a direct payment or the supply of goods or services with the aim of enhancing the event’s success.

The sponsor should receive a benefit in return for their support. This could be visibility through signage or branding, free tickets for staff members, access to participants’ data or the opportunity to speak at the event. Whatever the perk for the sponsor, the objective will always be to receive exposure and grow their own business simultaneously.

Why is sponsorship important for events?

Gaining event sponsorship is a brilliant way of attracting investment, visibility and participants to your event, as you will:

– Create partnerships with new companies or business owners

– Receive a healthy contribution towards the budget, so that you can plan and execute the best occasion possible by providing better catering, hiring more staff or marketing your occasion to a wider audience

– Add credibility to your event which would take years to build organically (sponsorship can show that a company believes your occasion is going to be a success)

Through their additional contacts and resources, your sponsor can also use their resources to increase the quality of your event. Your sponsor may be able to deliver professional services or provide their expertise to supply quality goods that can enhance participants’ experience throughout the day.

How to find event sponsorship

One of the key aspects of gaining event sponsorship is finding the right brands to sponsor your event and ones that will provide the right type of sponsorship.

Firstly, you must understand the objective and background of your own event. If you’re planning a small gathering, you’re unlikely to receive sponsorship from a global, well-known company. Instead, you should be realistic and target the right size of sponsor, it will also be beneficial to target sponsors who will have a vested interest in your event. This may be for geographical reasons if it’s a local company, or a businessman who wants to grow their reputation in your community.

You’re also more likely to receive sponsorship from brands that share the same values as the event you’re hosting. For instance, if the aim of your gathering is to promote health and fitness, a local fast-food takeaway is not the best brand to work with to share your message.

A good place to start is to target brands who are open to sponsoring an event. It’ll take a lot less convincing to get them on board as they’re already accustomed to sponsorship, and you may be able to charge more if they have a pre-existing sponsorship budget. As a result, we recommend using dedicated sponsorship websites such as sponsorseeker.co.uk to find your perfect partner before reaching out to businesses.

A great organiser is always able to attract the best sponsorship deals from brands that will have the most benefit to the event. You can find out more about developing your event management skills here.

How to get event sponsorship

The first step of asking for sponsorship is having a clear idea of what you want from your prospective sponsor. The sponsorship package should be a win-win for both sides, so the package should clearly set out what the perks will be for both the organiser and the sponsor.

You should consider incorporating varying price brackets, so that your potential sponsor can choose the level of input they want to commit to. The more expensive the package, the more benefit for the sponsor and while you may have to concede more control over your event the more money they will add to your budget.

To maximise the sponsorship, the package could cover part of the event (for example, one day of a weekend event), or cover multiple days at an increased cost. By having a package that covers a part of the event, this will give you the option to have multiple sponsors across different days. Ensure that you alter the targeting of your sponsorship package for each brand that you are approaching to sponsor you, so that they get more focused and relevant experiences.

If you have a target brand in mind, attempt to identify a specific person from the company such as the sponsorship or marketing manager, or someone higher up if possible. This will allow you to contact the decision-makers who will have more influence over whether they want to sponsor your event or not. Using generic email addresses or contact forms risks your approach reaching the wrong person or being lost amongst spam folders.

Sponsorship examples

If you need some event sponsorship ideas, then branded items can help you activate the marketing spend of your sponsors. These items can help you ensure that your package is unique and innovative and entice brands to choose your occasion to sponsor. Examples of items that can be branded include:

– Photo frames

– Unique Wi-Fi name or password

– Giveaway items

– Charging stations

– Sponsored live stream

– Ticketing or wristbands

Get event insurance with Protectivity

No good event takes place without good insurance cover that protects the health, well-being and interests of organisers, visitors and sponsors alike.

Whether you’re an organiser or a stallholder, get a free, instant quote for Event Insurance and ensure you’re not left out of pocket as a result of any unforeseen circumstances. For larger scale events its also worth considering events cancellation insurance.

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11:42:37 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Market a Dog Walking Business

17 August 2022

•

5 mins read

Contributors

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

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Do you love dogs? If so, turning that passion into a dog walking business can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding. As pet ownership continues to soar and people’s schedules become increasingly packed, demand for professional pet services is higher than ever.

But no matter how passionate or experienced you are, building a successful dog walking business still depends on how effectively you market yourself. Here’s an up-to-date guide with actionable tips to help your dog walking business thrive.

Build a professional website

In 2025, your website is still your digital shopfront. A modern, mobile-friendly, and informative site is non-negotiable. It should:

Clearly outline your services and pricing
Include customer reviews and testimonials
Feature an easy-to-use contact or booking form
Display your credentials, insurance, and qualifications
Offer FAQs and a blog (more on this below)

Pro tip: Use SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) to make sure your website ranks well when people in your area search for dog walking services.

Embrace business management software

Digital tools have revolutionised small business operations. Invest in pet care software that helps streamline bookings, invoicing, communications, and client records.

Some popular choices in 2025 include:

Time To Pet – great for automated scheduling, real-time GPS tracking, and client communication.
Scout – known for user-friendly mobile features and secure payments.
Precise Petcare – offers a professional client portal and detailed pet profiles.

These platforms don’t just improve operations—they enhance the client experience, which is key to retention and referrals.

Boost your presence on social media

Social media remains a powerful and low-cost way to market your dog walking business—especially platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where dog content thrives.

Here’s how to stand out:

Post daily walks (with owner permission) and introduce your dog clients.
Share tips for pet care, training, and local dog-friendly activities.
Use trending hashtags like #DogsofTikTok or #DogWalkerUK to increase reach.
Highlight your qualifications and insurance in your bio or pinned posts.
Use Instagram Reels or TikTok for fun and engaging short-form videos.

Building trust and familiarity online helps potential clients feel comfortable inviting you into their lives—and homes.

Start a blog that answers real questions

A regularly updated blog not only boosts your SEO but builds your authority as a knowledgeable pet care provider. Don’t just write about your services—write what pet owners care about.

Some blog topic ideas:

“How Often Should I Walk My Dog?”
“What to Look for in a Dog Walker”
“Tips for Introducing a Dog to a New Walker”
“Best Dog Parks in [Your City]”
“How to Prepare Your Dog for Hot Weather Walks”

Also, use your blog to showcase success stories and post glowing customer reviews—with permission, of course.

Don’t overlook printed promotional materials

While digital marketing is dominant, local print marketing is far from dead. In fact, it can be very effective for businesses rooted in the community.

Distribute flyers or postcards in:

Vets, groomers, and pet stores
Local cafés, gyms, and supermarkets
Community noticeboards or dog-friendly pubs

Add a QR code linking to your website or booking page. And consider fun branded giveaways—collapsible water bowls, treats, or poop bag dispensers—to stay top-of-mind.

Get listed and get reviewed

Online directories and local search tools are often the first stop for busy pet owners.

Make sure your business is listed on:

Google Business Profile
Yell
Bark
Nextdoor
Facebook Business Pages
Pet-specific directories like Rover or Tailster

Encourage happy clients to leave reviews. Positive ratings, especially on Google, are often the deciding factor for new customers.

Create local partnerships

In a tight-knit local economy, partnerships can drive growth and visibility. Consider teaming up with:

Pet supply shops (leave flyers or offer discounts)
Dog groomers and trainers
Local vets and pet clinics
Pet-friendly cafés and hotels
Shelters and rescue centres (volunteer to boost credibility)

You can also sponsor or participate in local dog events, charity walks, or pet fairs. Face-to-face interactions build real trust and lead to long-term clients.

Market smarter, not harder

Starting a dog walking business doesn’t require a huge upfront investment—but smart marketing can make the difference between surviving and thriving.

To recap:

Protect yourself and build trust with professional insurance.
Create a website and social profiles that look polished and professional.
Use tools to streamline operations and improve client communication.
Create valuable, engaging content that answers real customer questions.
Get visible locally—both online and offline—and don’t be shy about asking for reviews.

With the right approach, you can grow your dog walking business into a thriving, well-respected service in your local community—and enjoy every step of the journey with your four-legged clients.

Prioritise safety, credibility and trust

Before jumping into marketing, it’s essential to understand that dog owners are placing their beloved pets—and often their house keys—into your hands. That trust comes with responsibility.

Covering Your Risks: Accidents can happen. Whether a dog in your care gets lost or injured, damages property, or causes harm to others, these events can have serious consequences.

Our specialist Dog Walking Insurance can protect you from financial loss due to public liability, key loss, and pet-related incidents. Being insured also reassures clients that you’re a responsible professional.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

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