Nearly a decade on: Caroline Gwilym’s thriving business 

When Caroline Gwilym first connected with PRIME Cymru in 2017, she had recently decided to leave her role as an HR Manager. Caroline knew she wanted to retrain but was still exploring what her next chapter might look like.  

Through PRIME Cymru, she was matched with business mentor Rob Challenger, an experienced banking professional, and the pair met several times in Swansea to discuss her ideas. 

Together, they explored the possibility of Caroline establishing her own counselling business. Their conversations covered business planning, training opportunities and the support available to help turn her ambitions into reality. 

Caroline Gwilym

Reflecting on that time, Caroline said: “The discussions were really helpful. It kept me focused and on task at the time. It provided some accountability for me.” 

Caroline also valued having someone independent to talk through her plans with during such an important period of change. 

She said: “PRIME Cymru helped set me on my path.” 

Following those early mentoring sessions, Caroline retrained, completing a Foundation Degree in Counselling before going on to establish her own private practice, Bluespace Counselling & Therapeutic Coaching. 

Bluespace has grown from offering general counselling to specialising in bereavement support. While Caroline continues to work with clients seeking broader counselling services, much of her work now focuses on helping people navigate grief and loss. 

Her support takes several forms. She offers one-to-one counselling from the Life Therapy Centre in Swansea, as well as through walk-and-talk sessions, home visits and online appointments, making her services accessible to a wide range of people. 

Alongside her private practice, Caroline delivers workshops that help organisations and community groups better understand grief and bereavement. Most recently, she has worked with Swansea Carers Centre, recognising that many unpaid carers experience loss and bereavement as part of their caring journey. 

Committed to ensuring support is available within the community, Caroline has also established free grief and loss support groups. She is currently running a community group in Mumbles, providing a welcoming space where people can connect with others who understand what they are going through. 

Recently, Caroline reconnected with PRIME Cymru at an event in Swansea, nearly a decade after receiving mentoring. It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how far she has come and the positive impact her business is now making in the lives of others. 

To access Caroline’s support, you can contact her on 07798 825963 or email caroline@bluespace.wales. 

 For free business mentoring from PRIME Cymru, you can call us on 01550 721813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.