Meet the team

Meet the team

Meet the team behind our BIPC. They are here to help and support you on your business journey. You can find their contact details via our contact us page.

Ben Heslop - Programme Manager: Ben has a wealth of experience running businesses and social enterprises, and as BIPC Cumbria's Programme Manager he now overseas the countywide service as well as looking after the Barrow and Carlisle centres.

Chris Pease - Advice and Information Officer (Barrow Library): Chris is our in centre officer at Barrow Library. Chris has experience in the library service and will be happy to help, listen and advise you on your business journey. Outside of the library setting, Chris is a self-published science-fiction writer.

Chris works part-time and will be on site Monday, Tuesday and Friday.


Sophie Baker - Advice and Information Officer (Carlisle Library): Sophie is our centre officer at Carlisle Library. Sophie has a commercial background in branding, marketing and advertising. Whether you're just starting out or need advice on protecting your assets, Sophie is happy to talk through your business ideas in confidence.

Sophie works part-time and will be on site Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.