Case Study

Advice on Mat Leave for owner managed business

Hairlistique

Industry: Hair & Beauty

Location: Lewisham, London

Est. 2020

Team Size: <5

Business Advisory for Maternity Leave & Business Continuity Planning

The Challenge

Hairelistique Ltd, an Afro-hair salon established in 2020 and based in Lewisham, London, is a successful owner-managed business. As the owner prepared for the arrival of her first baby, she faced a significant challenge: understanding the impact of maternity leave on her business and what financial and operational support she could expect. Her primary concerns revolved around maintaining business continuity, managing income during her absence, understanding statutory maternity pay entitlements, and planning for a smooth return to work. She needed expert business advisory services to navigate this personal and professional transition effectively.

Pennyhills’ Solution

Pennyhills partnered with Hairelistique Ltd to provide comprehensive business advisory services specifically tailored to planning for maternity leave as an owner-manager. Our solution involved:

We conducted a thorough review of Hairelistique’s financial model and operational structure to assess the potential impact of the owner’s maternity leave on cash flow, client scheduling, and overall business continuity.

We provided clear, detailed advice on the owner’s eligibility for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or Maternity Allowance, explaining the criteria, payment rates, and duration. We also advised on other potential government support or benefits she might be entitled to as a business owner.

We developed a tailored financial plan to manage the business during her leave, including strategies for income management, expense reduction, and utilising any available support to maintain financial stability.

We offered practical business advice on maintaining client relationships and operational continuity during her absence. This included discussions around potential temporary staffing solutions, client communication strategies, and managing appointment bookings.

We discussed options for her return to work, whether full-time or part-time, and the financial implications of each, helping her plan for a smooth reintegration into the business.

We provided a safe space for the owner to voice all her concerns, offering reassurance and practical solutions to every query, ensuring she felt confident and supported throughout this significant life event.

Key Results & Impact

By leveraging Pennyhills’ expert business advisory services, the owner of Hairelistique Ltd gained clarity and confidence in navigating her upcoming maternity leave. Pennyhills provided a clear roadmap for managing her business during her absence, covering financial implications, statutory support, and operational continuity. This proactive planning allowed her to focus on her personal life with greater peace of mind, knowing that her business was in capable hands and that she had a robust strategy for both her leave and her return.

Planning maternity leave as a business owner was overwhelming, but Pennyhills made it completely manageable. They explained everything from maternity pay to how to keep my salon running smoothly. I feel so much more confident knowing I have their expert support during this special time!
Photo of Saskia Burton-James
Saskia Burton-James
Director & Founder