On Monday, Mrs Phelps will find out if A+ Care 4 All takes out a national business award in Melbourne.

“For the past five years it has been quite a battle to make mortgage payments and keep a roof over our heads, on Centrelink benefits, so when this opportunity came up I went for it,” Mrs Phelps said.

The mother of four has overcome her own mental and physical barriers – including  dyslexia –  to launch the business.

Through the federal government’s New Employment Incentive Scheme Mrs Phelps accessed financial assistance and study to prepare her for business.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme presented an opportunity, she felt, based on her disposition.

“I’ve always been aware of the struggles of people with disabilities,” Mrs Phelps said. “I was a swim coach for a while and I discovered that I connected with these people.

“I have a passion to help people realise their goals and be all that they can be, and not be limited by people’s expectations.”

Over the past 14 months Mrs Phelps has completed her Certificate IV in Small Business Management undertaken further tertiary study to gain disability qualifications.

The business will mark its first anniversary on Saturday but already employs 23 people and has purchased a new car to meet its functions.

Those efforts were recognised with a Hunter Region Business Excellence Centre award last month.

“During her first year in business Rae recognised that overnight respite for her clients was an area of unmet demand so she has recently purchased a large home to enable her to offer this service as well,” Hunter Region BEC manager Kerry Hallett said.

“On the night of the [awards] Mrs Phelps mentioned that she was very happy as she could get the house keys early, get in and start cleaning, and be ready for her first overnight client as soon as possible.” 

The National NEIS Association will fly Mrs Phelps to Melbourne for the awards.