LOCAL business owner Natasha Evans is hoping to help people struggling with their mental health through her unique gift box business.

Natasha, who lives in Hamworthy, launched Soothe Box Company in December 2019 following her depressive disorder diagnosis in November 2018.

Soothe Box Company offers thoughtful gift boxes specifically tailored to people struggling with their mental health, featuring items such as luxury chocolate, a Banks Lyon Botanical candle and more.

During the time of her diagnosis, Natasha found it very difficult to cope, particularly with her family living in Shropshire.

Natasha explained: "I never picked up my phone, so my mum sent me packages in the post full of things that I love.

"It's a really good way to reach out to people who are difficult to contact."

This sparked Natasha's inspiration for Soothe Boxes and helped her on the road to recovery.

The items in the Soothe Boxes are reflective of the different techniques used to help change Natasha's mindset when she was at her lowest.

The boxes focus on mindfulness (being present) and self-compassion, two important aspects of Natasha's recovery.

Now, with her company picking up momentum, Natasha is hoping to take it one step further through Natwest's Back Her Business Campaign.

Recommended to Natasha by a friend in the early stages of her business, Natasha hopes that this campaign will give her "an extra cash boost."

She explained: "I would be able to make bespoke and tailored boxes with special items for those in rehabilitation centres and inpatient treatment."

In order to be supported by Natwest, Natasha is required to raise £1000 before March 5.

If she raises £1000, Natwest will then match this amount and provide Natasha with the additional funding she requires for Soothe Box Company.

Natasha hopes people will donate and help her continue to build up her business.

She said: "This campaign is encouraging a female business owner. There is a big gender gap in entrepreneurship. Plus, this is for a good, worthwhile business that makes somebody feel better.

"I'm not doing this campaign to be rich, I want to make a difference and reach people. This campaign is a good opportunity to do that."

To support Natasha through Natwest's Back Her Business campaign, you can donate via her Crowdfunder page: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/help-soothe-box-company-to-grow#start

If you would like to find out more about Soothe Box Company, visit: https://sootheboxcompany.co.uk/