A LEADING Scottish Catholic entrepreneur has helped a 19-year-old to launch an unusual business venture.
Sir Tom Farmer CBE helped Brian Rafferty, 19, to begin a new chapter in his life by officially opening his second-hand bookshop earlier this month. Brian has Asperger Syndrome and despite having both school and college qualifications he has been unable to secure a job.
The new venture, Broughton Street Book Shop, located at 44 Broughton Street, Edinburgh, has given Brian the chance not only to earn his own money, but will allow him to make donations to the National Autistic Society, a cause very close to his heart. Asperger Syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder and is mostly a hidden disability. But it affects social communication, social interaction and social imagination. The exact cause is not known and there is no single treatment.
Mr Rafferty said: “I have been trying for a long time to get a job but without suc cess, and I’m really excited about my new business venture. I love books and visitors to the shop will have the chance to browse and purchase a great bargain. I would like to thank Sir Tom.” Sir Tom said: “Brian is really demonstrating the cando attitude that is needed to get ahead in business.”