When Amy Clark launched Shine & Smile Services Ltd, she wasn’t simply starting a cleaning business. Drawing on previous experience in the social care sector, Amy recognised a growing need for reliable, high-quality service that combined professional cleaning and companionship support.
Based in South Tyneside, Amy’s service helps people enjoy comfortable, well-maintained homes at a time in life when they are perhaps less able to do this themselves. Families tell her the service brings reassurance, knowing their loved ones are receiving regular support and companionship.
And enjoying the company of Amy’s vibrant team members is the icing on the cake.
Of course, the cleaning service stands alone as a service for the families who appreciate coming home from work to a gleaming home and more quality time!
Building confidence to take the next step
Like many aspiring business owners, Amy’s biggest concern before launching the company was whether her new venture would succeed. “I was worried about it not working out,” she said. However, Amy’s experience in both cleaning and social care had already highlighted a clear gap in the market. While care providers often include light domestic tasks as part of care visits, Amy saw a need for a more dedicated and thorough cleaning service that could support people to remain independent in their own homes.
The importance of seeking, and accepting, support
Like her clients, Amy benefited from support too. Through the South Tyneside Pledge, Amy heard about the Start Up South Tyneside programme. Delivered by TEDCO Business Support, the project is funded by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
TEDCO Business Advisor Colin Lynch supported Amy as she explored her business model, refined her plans for growth and established a strong foundation for the future. Colin recalls his first meeting with Amy,
“It was quickly apparent that this was not just another cleaning business. The way Amy spoke about helping people retain their dignity and independence at home was really compelling. She knew she could bring a genuine benefit to the local community.”
After some pretty in-depth discussions about the right way forward for her business, Colin helped Amy to set up a Limited Company and a business bank account with TIDE. She tells us,
“All the support I have received so far has been extremely useful.”
Amy also attended How to Master Digital Marketing and Develop Your Brand at TEDCO HQ in South Shields. She set up a new Facebook page and quickly began building a loyal following, with people responding to her approachable personality and genuine desire to help others.
Reviews are pouring in. When Maureen said, “So good and friendly would recommend”, that simple statement meant Amy knew she had got it right and Amy loves this particular review:
“Amazing cleaning business – honestly, they’ve been amazing. Super reliable, easy to communicate with, and they actually pay attention to the little details that most people miss. Everything feels fresh and properly clean after they’ve been, not just a quick surface job. You can tell they take pride in what they do, which makes a big difference. If you’re looking for someone trustworthy who’ll do a great job without any hassle, I’d definitely recommend giving them a try 👍”
Trust makes a difference every day
For Amy, the rewards of self-employment go far beyond business growth.
“The most rewarding part is supporting others and making people’s lives easier. What started with just me and a bucket of cleaning products has grown into something special, and I’m so grateful for every customer who has trusted me with their home along the way.”
With strong demand, a clear market position and ambitious plans for future growth, Shine & Smile Services is already making a positive difference across South Tyneside through its cleaning, companionship and support services, one home at a time.
Find out more about Shine and Smile Services
Amy’s story shows how the right support and determination can turn an idea into a thriving business.
If you’re in the North East and thinking about starting your own venture, TEDCO is here to help. See the TEDCO Programmes page to find out more about the programmes available in your area.
Tell us a few details on this Initial Enquiry Form and we’ll be in touch to help you as much as we can.
Start Up South Tyneside is a business Start up programme delivered by the TEDCO Business Support on behalf of South Tyneside Council which aims to support local residents with their aspirations to start up a business. This project is funded by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
