Dr Ali Tahmassebi

Dr Tahmassebi is the driving force behind Langbaurgh Social Enterprise, a co-operative venture providing business support to medical practices in rural areas of Redcar & Cleveland, which is also working to maximise existing resources by providing more services locally.

This is Dr Ali Tahmassebi’s story…

1. Why did you want to start your own business?

   There was a huge opportunity to bring new services into the area because of the changes in the NHS system. The best thing about it is that all the profits made are re-invested into the community to provide new services. It also eradicates some of the bureaucracy that surrounds the NHS.

2. What was the deciding factor for you?

   There was huge support for the system, over 60 GPs wanted to start such a venture, so the opportunity was there for the taking.

3. How did you get the business off the ground?

   A lot of hard work. We were able to secure funding in a number of ways, including grants from the enterprise team and contributions from other practices in the area.

4. Best bits about working for yourself?

   Being the Chairman of the project, it is great to see a non-bureaucratic system working and getting the community involved. We have a large membership of patients who are driving the business forward.

5. What have been the biggest challenges so far?

   With large-scale projects, securing funding projects can be a challenge. We’re currently bidding for a £1 million fund to pay for more facilities. The speed we are going keeps us on our feet.

6. What would you have done differently if you could go back?

   Everything has been fine, I wouldn’t change anything.

7. How does it feel to be your own boss?

   Well being the Chairman, it is a great because you get a lot of support from the practices and patients. However, a new Chairman is elected annually so someone else will take my position in a few months.

8. A piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?

   Lots of planning and make sure there’s a need for a service. Identify your customers and offer something that’s going to benefit them. Never give up and always find solutions..

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