Case studies: The Travel Clinic (Glasgow)

The Travel Clinic (Glasgow)
Clare Henderson
5 Arran Court
Glasgow Airport
Glasgow
PA3 2ST

Tel: 0141 848 4800

Email: clare@thetravelclinicglasgow.co.uk

Background

Exotic holiday destinations are proving to be increasingly popular and one Glasgow-based company is ensuring that budding travellers take the necessary precautions before their trip of a lifetime turns into a holiday from hell.

The Travel Clinic (Glasgow) was launched in 2003 by Clare Henderson with support from Women Into Business and provides pre-travel health advice, vaccinations and anti-malarial tablets in an attempt to reduce the health risks associated with modern day international travel.

Clare had previously worked as a travel nurse in a leading Glasgow clinic and when it closed down she seized upon the opportunity to establish her own business.

Quick decision

Clare said: “When I lost my job it became evident to me that there was still an ongoing need for a private travel health clinic in Glasgow and the surrounding area. I had to make a quick decision to go it alone or risk handing this golden opportunity to a competitor.

“Within six weeks of losing my job I had launched The Travel Clinic (Glasgow). This was an extremely hectic period but I had to act swiftly or lose the advantage of a seamless join between the closure of one business and the opening of a new clinic.

Help from Business Gateway

“I got in touch with Business Gateway Renfrewshire and attended a number of seminars. It was here that I received advice on available funding and how best to shape my business plan. However, I do think that if I’d had more time I would’ve been able to take further advantage of the information and support groups that are on offer at Women Into Business.”

Since launching The Travel Clinic (Glasgow) Clare has continued to attend a number of business development seminars and has joined the Women Into Business Networking programme.

Exciting

“Launching my own business has been a tremendous experience. Not only does it mean that I can continue to work as a travel nurse but it has presented new and exciting challenges on a professional, business and personal level.

“It was really only after opening the clinic that I discovered just how much support, advice and educational opportunities exist for those who intend to start up in business. I had no idea as to the wealth of information and help that existed to help me through the process of establishing The Travel Clinic.”

Sharon Hamilton, Manager of Business Gateway Renfrewshire, added: “Clare’s determination and drive has ensured that she has turned The Travel Clinic into a successful company. Launching a company can be a stressful experience but to it in six weeks is a tremendous achievement and I wish Clare every success for the future.”