How Helen is Helping Businesses Across West Lothian and Beyond

It’s not every day you meet someone who happily takes on the admin tasks most of us dread and does it with a smile. But that’s exactly what Helen, founder of Blossom Virtual Assistant, has built her business around. In a recent radio interview celebrating the best of West Lothian businesses, Helen shared her unexpected career change, life as a virtual assistant (VA), and the joy she finds in helping others succeed through the magic of organisation.

 

A Bold Leap at 50: “What on Earth Do I Do Now?”

For Helen, everything changed in 2022 when her boss retired. Having gone as far as she could in her civil service role, she found herself at a crossroads. “I was in a good job,” she recalled, “but I’d outgrown it. And being over 50, I did wonder what’s next?”

That question led to months of soul-searching. Eventually, Helen decided to lean into what she loved: helping people, staying organised, and creating systems that make life easier. By

March 2023, she’d launched her VA business, a one-woman operation that’s since grown into a respected brand.

“It was life-changing,” she said. “I wanted something that improved my lifestyle and work-life balance. And that’s exactly what I got. I absolutely love being self-employed.”

 

What Exactly Does a Virtual Assistant Do?

While the term *“virtual assistant”* might still puzzle some, Helen’s role is simple: she provides remote admin support to businesses of all kinds. Think inbox management, diary juggling, travel bookings, content design, and even website building.

“Essentially, I do everything a PA would just virtually,” she explained.

“My focus is on helping my clients thrive by taking the pressure off.”

And she means it. One client asked Helen to tackle an inbox stuffed with over 8,000 emails. Her mission? Ruthlessly clear the clutter, prioritise what mattered, and bring order to the chaos. “Some people like to hug their inboxes,” she laughed.

“But sometimes, you’ve just got to let go.”

 

35 Years of Experience And Still Learning

Helen brings more than three decades of experience to her business, thanks to her time in the civil service. From staying calm under pressure to crystal-clear communication, those skills gave her the perfect foundation for her new chapter.

Still, starting a business came with its challenges. “Insurance, contracts, legal stuff—it was all new to me,” she admitted.

“But the Business Gateway here in Scotland was amazing. I had an advisor who supported me through the early stages.”Now, learning is part of her daily routine. “I try to include a bit of learning every day,”she said.

“There are fantastic free online courses through West Lothian College. It’s about investing in yourself so you can give your best to your clients.”

Boundaries, Balance, and Being Thorough

 

One of Helen’s biggest lessons? The importance of setting boundaries.

“I’ve had to be both assertive and diplomatic,” she said. “People need to know when I’m available and what I can deliver. Everything’s in writing expectations, hours, scope of work. It protects both of us.”

That clarity hasn’t just won her happy clients, it’s earned her industry recognition too. Her business, Blossom Virtual Assistant, has scooped multiple awards, including:

• Community Spirit Award from Hays and the Scottish PA Network
• Most Dedicated Virtual Assistant Businesswoman 2024 (Central Scotland) by AI Acquisition International
• Recognition from the SME News UK Enterprise Awards 2024

 

Giving Back: The Menopause Café and More

Helen’s story isn’t just about business, it’s about giving back too. She volunteers with a local wellbeing hub at Livingston Cricket Club, where she designed their website, managed social media, and helped grow their community presence.

She also hosts a Menopause Café, a free, informal hour where women can share experiences and support each other. “It’s one of the most rewarding things I do,” she said.

“These spaces are so needed.”

 

Knowing What You’re Good At And Saying No

Like any business owner, Helen’s had her fair share of learning curves. One of them? Figuring out what she doesn’t want to do.

“I once agreed to answer phones for a client. It ended up being ten hours of non-stop calls. I couldn’t focus on anything else,”she recalled.

“Now, I know that’s not my thing. And that it’s okay to say no.”

Instead, she sticks to what she does best. “I’m a starter, but I’m thorough,” she said.

“I like to see things through properly. It’s about getting the job done right, so my clients can focus on the big stuff.”

 

Where You Can Find Helen

Whether you’re in West Lothian or anywhere else in the UK, Helen’s virtual services mean

distance is no barrier. You can reach her via: http://www.blossomvirtualassistant.co.uk

 

Let Your Business Blossom

Helen’s story is proof that it’s never too late to take a leap, try something new, and build a business around your strengths. By mastering the little things, she helps others achieve the big things and in doing so, she’s created a space where both she and her clients can truly “bloomin’ thrive.”

So, what are you waiting for? Maybe it’s time for your inbox and your business to blossom.

What’s one “small” task you’d happily never do again in your business? Could it be time to hand it over to someone like Helen? Let us know, send us an email: info@heartsonglive.co.uk and share this story with someone who needs a helping hand behind the scenes.