Shropshire entrepreneur proves disability is not a barrier to success following recognition

As a disabled entrepreneur, Vicki is on a mission to prove that disability is not a barrier to success, inspiring others to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.

Vicki, based in Shropshire, founded Vicki Admin Fairy in 2021, providing essential admin support to self-employed professionals and small businesses across the UK. What started as a modest venture with one client paying £40 a month has now grown into a fully booked, award-winning business, offering services such as social media management, email organisation, invoicing, CRM support, trademark applications, and more.

“I want to be more than just a business - I want to be a standout disabled entrepreneur who inspires others to achieve their goals, regardless of their challenges,” Vicki says. “Winning the #SBS award from Theo Paphitis is not just about my success, but about proving that disabled entrepreneurs belong in the spotlight too. We have the same ambition, drive, and talent as anyone else—we just navigate the world differently.”

Vicki’s journey to business success has been anything but conventional. Born with Cerebral Palsy, she spent much of her childhood undergoing major surgeries and extensive physiotherapy. But being disabled never stopped her. From horse riding as a child to building a 20-year career at HMRC, she has always found ways to push boundaries.

However, in 2018, life threw another challenge her way - she broke her hip. Though a difficult experience, it turned out to be a life-changing moment, leading to better mobility support and a renewed sense of independence. Two years later, when faced with redundancy from HMRC, she decided to take control of her future and build a business on her own terms.

“I wasn’t going to be forced into something that didn’t work for me,” Vicki explains. “Instead of finding another job, I took my skills, my passion for organisation, and my experience, and turned them into a business. I didn’t want to just survive—I wanted to thrive.”

And thrive she did. In just a few short years, Vicki Admin Fairy has grown into a highly sought-after service, earning multiple industry recognitions, including:

Vicki’s success is not just about business—it’s about breaking barriers. Recognising the unique challenges faced by disabled entrepreneurs, she co-founded a Disabled Entrepreneur Online Network in Shropshire, Ablepreneurs: Entrepreneurs with Disabilities & Chronic Illnesses (Shropshire) creating a space for connection, support, and business growth. She also mentors a young business student, showing the next generation that entrepreneurship is for everyone.

“I know what it’s like to feel like the system isn’t built for you,” she says. “Disabled entrepreneurs often face more obstacles, fewer opportunities, and less visibility. That’s why I want to be a standout business and a role model—to show others that it is possible to build a thriving business, even when the odds are stacked against you.”

Winning Theo Paphitis’ #SBS Award in December 2024 was a huge milestone for Vicki, and she is looking forward to attending the SBS event in February, where she will meet Theo in person.

“I can’t wait to connect with Theo and other incredible small business owners,” she says. “Being recognised by someone as successful as Theo Paphitis is a moment I’ll never forget. But more importantly, it’s proof that disabled entrepreneurs deserve a place at the table.”

Vicki’s story is one of determination, adaptability, and resilience. From overcoming physical challenges to turning redundancy into a thriving business, she is living proof that your circumstances do not define your potential.

Her message to other aspiring entrepreneurs—disabled or not—is simple:

“If you have a dream, go for it. Don’t let barriers stop you. Adapt, push forward, and keep going. You can create success on your own terms.”

For further information, head to vickiadminfairy.co.uk, email hello@vickiadminfairy.co.uk or connect with Vicki on LinkedIn.