Notice Board
What Inspires Me : Helping People in Need
Beyond the accolades , what truly drives me is helping people in need . Whether it ’ s someone locked out of their car or a parent panicking because their baby is trapped inside , I feel a deep connection to those I assist . This is what keeps me going , and I always have a smile on my face , ready to tackle the next challenge . Last summer alone , I unlocked vehicles for around 10 + babies and toddlers locked inside — one car ( and baby !) even got locked twice in the same week .
Life Can Be Demanding & Luckily Locksmithing is Flexible
Life has been busy , especially over the past four months , as I ’ ve taken on the responsibility of caring for my brother , who has disabilities . Balancing my locksmith work with caring for him is like spinning a lot of plates , but it ’ s all part of the journey . My daughter , now 11 , has grown up in the van with me for the past 10 years , and I ’ m proud of how I ’ ve managed to build my business while being there for my family .
There have been bumps in the road , like when my van ’ s engine blew up with no warning — Transits are notorious for burning holes in pistons . But I ’ ve learned to adapt and keep going , whether it ’ s finding new ways to finance and lease the latest equipment or navigating the loneliness that can come with being a locksmith . Thankfully , my dog keeps me company on those long , solitary hours on the road .
Marketing & Ethics
As a self-employed locksmith , I ’ ve learned to manage everything , from marketing my business through to developing a great work ethic . I don ’ t do work for call centres because they often undervalue locksmiths , pushing down prices while charging customers more . I believe in treating people fairly , whether it ’ s leaving them secure in their homes after a job or being cautious about the work I take on . Some warrant work can be traumatic , especially when it involves vulnerable people , and I refuse to contribute to their distress , so I only work on the commercial side of the business .
The Challenges & The Pride of Locksmithing
Locksmithing is an ever-evolving trade , especially with the rapid updates in car technology . While I don ’ t work on safes , I ’ m always prepared to invest in the latest kit , even if it means leasing equipment over a few years . The work has its challenges , but I wouldn ’ t trade it for anything . My bull terrier , my approach , and my dedication to my craft are all part of what makes Indy Locks unique . It ’ s more than just a job — it ’ s a reflection of who I am , and I ’ m proud to serve my community with integrity and heart .
My Love of The Locksmith Journal
Since day one , I ’ ve been closely following The Locksmith Journal , because I don ’ t attend the shows due to not having the time to travel the country and it enables me to stay updated with the latest products and tools ; I look forward to receiving the magazine every month .
I know who ’ s who in the industry and , despite not physically attending events , I never feel isolated — I always have my ear to the ground . Being interviewed by The Locksmith Journal is a huge honour for me . I never imagined that I would win awards or be recognised in this way , and it ’ s humbling . I ’ m incredibly proud of my achievements , and I ’ m grateful for the help I ’ ve had along the way . A big thank you to everyone who has supported me .
Helping Troubled Youths – Perhaps Future Locksmiths !
My journey hasn ’ t been straightforward . When I was younger , I was a bit of a troubled youth . But life has come full circle in a meaningful way . Recently , a teacher friend asked me to give a motivational talk to children with behavioural issues at a local school . I shared my story , and it resonated with them — they were really engaged . The experience was so positive that I ’ ve been invited back and even to another school . I even had some of the kids in the back of my van , cutting keys , which they absolutely loved . It ’ s a powerful reminder that no matter where you start , you can always find a path forward .
As an independent locksmith , I handle everything myself — from taking calls to doing the job and providing aftercare . It ’ s all me , and I take pride in that personal touch . Every step of the way , I strive to do my best for my customers and my community .
www . indylocks . co . uk ben @ indylocks . co . uk
SEPTEMBER 2024
11
Issue Takeover locksmithjournal . co . uk