Kirsty Webster from GROW Counselling initially engaged with The Circle back in 2023, attending The Circle’s UKSPF funded training programme, Social Enterprise Essentials. GROW Counselling then joined our Dundee hub in 2024. The business offers 1-1 therapy online and in person, 1-1 walk and talk therapy, and mental health training.
Since becoming a tenant, GROW Counselling has continued to develop and flourish, including running a NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation funded pilot project in 2025 to offer mental health workshops and funded counselling sessions. Through a combination of 78 workshop hours and 105 therapy sessions, this pilot project supported over 70 individuals. The project has now grown into its own fully fledged social enterprise: Together Tayside. During her time with The Circle, Kirsty has also benefitted from pro-bono advice and support from The Circle’s consultancy team, including supporting with the process of setting up Together Tayside.
“I continue to feel the benefits of the inclusive environment of The Circle. The building and grounds are always commented on by my clients. The opportunity to hire bigger spaces within the building is very useful. I feel supported by the team at The Circle, feel I can ask about anything I am unsure of as a tenant and aspiring social entrepreneur. I ask LOT of questions (!) but I feel that the team at The Circle want me and my ventures to do well and they will support me in any way they can. Without their help, I would not have been in a position to be exploring developing my pilot project further.
The pilot project supported over 70 individuals. If I did not have the support of The Circle, this would not have been realized. This has given a good body of evidence to apply for funding to take forward Together Tayside CIC.
Being able to create a socially inclusive opportunity for those struggling with their mental health and wellbeing has been a goal of mine for a long time. They have allowed me to the space to develop my private practice alongside my projects to gain experience in social enterprise.”