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Coworking space for all budgets addressed a demand in the city

By Keith Findlay

August 19 2019, 9:00 am

Karen Bain. Picture by Scott Baxter

Each week, we ask small businesses key questions.

Here we speak to Karen Bain, development manager at Desk@theD at Bon Accord House in Aberdeen.

How and why did you start in business?

I have worked for the Aberdeen Day Project at The Bread Maker for 12 years. In 2016, we were celebrating our 10th year and decided we should have a new project – something that would give some benefit back to the community, while keeping in line with The Bread Maker values.

After a year or so of research and planning I came up with the proposal of a coworking space, which would not only give The Bread Maker more room for meetings and activities but also help our client group to develop their skills, and encourage collaborations and partnership working with other charities and small businesses.

That is when Desk@theD was founded. It is exactly what people were telling us they needed – a dedicated workplace somewhere that offers the discipline and motivation to get on with work whenever they need an office base in an excellent environment.

How did you get to where you are today?

I came to Aberdeen to attend university and was lucky enough to find employment in the city. I worked for the Cornerstone charity, which I enjoyed, but one day on my way back from work I saw an advert in a shop window, The Bread Maker, and applied. It sounded like such a different way of interacting with adults with learning disabilities, while fun and exciting. While still with The Bread Maker, I have dedicated time over the past two years to setting up Desk@theD.

Who helped you?

The Aberdeen Day Project board has a wealth of knowledge, and offered advice and support.

My biggest supporter has been my husband, Stuart, who encouraged and believed in me. He could see the potential in the venture and knew I would do my best to get it up and running.

Business Gateway helped with advice, ideas, suggestions and promotional opportunities, and I attended many of its training courses and networking events. These were valuable,and gave me the chance to meet lots of new people.

I joined the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) earlier this year and have found it enormously helpful. It has been on hand to answer stupid questions and give advice. It has also encouraged us to take part in events and visits that have been extremely insightful, while making others aware of what we do.

What has been your biggest mistake?

Not asking for help enough and trying to do everything myself. People are generally very nice and happy to give advice and guidance, but they have to know what it is you need.

What is your greatest achievement?

Seeing Desk@theD used. It’s great to see an idea come to fruition and know that you were part of it. I’m looking forward to seeing how it progresses and being part of the community we develop.

If you were in power in government, what would you change?

At The Bread Maker I am involved in working alongside adults with learning disabilities, giving them support and guidance. I see how hard it is for them to make ends meet, and the support they have had in the past diminish and disappear. Governments needs to take responsibility for vulnerable people.

What do you still hope to achieve?

I’ve learned so much in setting up a new enterprise and gained many skills, but there is always so much more to learn. I want to remain open to new ideas and be flexible in our approach in order to give our clients what they need.

What do you do to relax?

I have a gorgeous wee miniature schnauzer which I enjoy walking. I spend time with my husband and friends, and do exercise classes to wind down and keep fit.

What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?

I love (author) Jo Nesbo and have just received his new book, which I’m excited to get started. I’m not one for TV, really, but I do like a crime drama or comedy.