Out-of-work roofer starts again with a clean slate

Oct 20 2009 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A FORMER roofer who overcame communication barriers but still could not find work in his chosen profession has started a business producing handcrafted slate products.

Padraic Joyce moved to the North East from the Aran Islands in Galway Bay but, despite having worked as a roofer in Ireland for 20 years, he was unable to secure work in the UK.

He is profoundly deaf but had never before suffered any issues in his professional life because of his hearing problems.

Mr Joyce, who is now based in Middlesbrough, said: “This was the first time I had experienced these kind of barriers and it really affected my confidence.

“After talking to my wife, Verity, about my passion for working with slate, she said she could really see me producing my product range because I tend to be good at creating things with my hands.”

He set up Kilronan Design to produce slate products, including mirrors, clocks, candle holders and fireplaces. He also accepts bespoke commissions.

Mr Joyce initially decided to concentrate on online sales and selling through trade shows to reduce communication difficulties. He received help from Business Link, which put him in touch with business advisor Chris Simpson.

Mr Joyce said: “I’d been told about a grant that was available but was then faced with the problem of contacting people about how to fill the form in.

“I contacted Business Link to see if they could help and was put in touch with an advisor whose support was key in helping to launch and develop the business.

“My advisor helped endlessly, with everything from business planning to identifying funding sources. He makes a particular effort with communication to both me and Verity, who is also deaf. Being deaf aware always helps.”

Mr Simpson said he was “truly inspired” by Mr Joyce. He said: “He’s overcome a number of difficult barriers to set up a successful business, which has enabled him to indulge his passion for slate. Kilronan Design is now operating from new premises and is attracting interest from across the UK, which just shows how, with the right approach, a hobby can develop into a successful business venture. I look forward to continuing to work with Padraic to help his business further develop and grow.” Kilronan Design has expanded into its own premises in Middlesbrough’s Southlands Business Centre and Mr Joyce is now keen to grow the business in the Irish market, and to find opportunities to link up with other enterprises.