About us
What do we need to flourish in life? The work we do has a big impact on our lives - a good job can be good for our wellbeing, but an insecure or stressful job can undermine our health. Yet even if we’re able to be selective about the jobs we apply for, few of us are able to identify the type of environment or workplace culture that would suit us.
Jill Barlow - Founder & CEO, Jigsaw Coaching CIC
I set up Jigsaw in 2017 when I was looking for a new direction and greater satisfaction in my life. My career has been a varied one with a range of roles - I’ve worked in charities, businesses, education and the NHS, managing projects with a general theme of improving health.
For my first job, I spent over 10 years exploring how work affects health (in both positive and negative ways) by interviewing people about their occupational history, providing support and advice where necessary. I found it fascinating - some people thrived on challenge and variety, whereas others preferred a routine, repetitive job that they could easily switch off from. What was clear was that many felt that there was little support to help them deal with dissatisfaction, stress or other issues.
After running a business for a few years, I moved on to other positions - working in a music college to evaluate the benefits that live music can bring to people in healthcare settings and also a role as community employment specialist, supporting people with a disability to find employment or volunteering. These jobs helped me to realise that it’s important for me to see the impact my work makes on people's lives.
I ended up in a permanent job in the NHS, working on research studies. This was great for security, but over time I realised I wasn’t using my skills and my confidence was ebbing away. After much thought, I decided to take the plunge and qualify as a coach, setting up my own social enterprise - using my past experience to help others tackle challenges and find more fulfilment in their lives.
I’m passionate about helping people who are feeling lost or dissatisfied to get connected to what matters to them - whether at work or in their home life.
If this sounds like you, get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.
Board Members
Francisco Carrasco
- Creative Director and CEO of Luma Creations (National Portfolio Organisation with Arts Council England) promoting Latin American and Diversity Arts by delivering festivals, large scale events and cultural programmes.
- Composer, artist and writer who has produced and directed many events including Merseyside International Street Festival and The Giant’s Carnival.
- Steering group member of North Culture Network’s sustainability network and Judge for Small Good Business Awards UK.
Alan Wilson
- Chartered legal executive
- Founder and Director of OutreachSailing CIC which provided sailing opportunities to people to build confidence, self-esteem and team-building skills.
Strategic Advisors
- Paul Barnard - Operational manager for Claremont Farm, Wirral and previous CEO of a CIC.
- David Townley - Partner, JDT Accountants