How the Tay Cities SME Skills Fund Transformed Darren Reid Gardening Services

For Darren Reid Gardening Services, a thriving gardening company led by its namesake, Darren Reid, the Tay Cities SME Skills Fund proved to be a game-changing solution to upskill his team and fund crucial training programmes.  

The Initial Challenge

Despite their success in providing comprehensive gardening services, Darren identified some skills gaps within his team that required training. Specialised equipment operation, including excavators, pesticide sprayers, and woodchippers, was crucial for securing contracts and maintaining service quality.

A Tailored Training Solution

By partnering with the Tay Cities SME Skills Fund, Darren worked closely with the Fund’s Dundee & Angus Training Needs Advisor, Elaine Donnachie, to develop a targeted training strategy. The programme offered:

• Technical Certifications: Pesticide spraying (PA1 & PA6), mini digger operation, and woodchipper training.
• Team Effectiveness Training: Ensuring all staff aligned with the company’s standards and goals.

Most importantly, the fund covered up to £5,000 in training costs, eliminating the financial barriers that often prevent small businesses from investing in their workforce.

The Results

1. Upskilled Workforce: Darren’s team received certifications that boosted their confidence and competence in using advanced machinery.
2. Improved Credibility: These qualifications helped the company stand out when bidding for contracts, showcasing their professionalism and readiness.
3. Streamlined Processes: With training schedules well-coordinated, Darren was able to maintain operations without significant disruptions.
4. Future-Ready Business: Darren is now exploring the Help to Grow Management Programme at the University of Dundee as part of the Tay Cities SME Skills Fund to continue strengthening his leadership and strategic planning skills.

A Model for Small Business Growth

Darren's experience highlights the Tay Cities SME Skills Fund as a critical resource for local businesses. Covering Angus, Dundee, Perth, and the northeast of Fife, the project demonstrates how targeted support can drive business development.

Darren’s Advice to Small Businesses

“The funding has been massive for us, making training possible where it wasn’t before. It strengthens not only the company but the staff too. I urge other small businesses to take advantage of this opportunity while it lasts.”