Job-threat workers want to go it alone

The pain of public sector job cuts has led to surge in inquiries from workers wanting to be their own boss.

Business support agency Blue Orchid offers free, publicly funded advice to anyone thinking of setting up in business in Oldham.

Managing director Heather Hayes said: “We have seen a spike in people wanting information on becoming self-employed and it is being driven by the sharp increase in redundancies.

“Our message very clearly is that we are here to help,” she said.

“From the very first steps of working out whether becoming self-employed is right for you to nurturing and honing your idea to researching your market to organising finance.

“We have a team of highly experienced advisers who can guide you through the journey of setting up in business.

“Many referrals are coming through from the JobCentre and Business Link.”

Mrs Hayes urges people not to despair over redundancy saying it can be a stepping stone for skilled workers to set up their own successful business.

She says: “According to a YouGov survey, 58 per cent of people want to set up in business, so we know there is real interest out there in entrepreneurship.

“Setting up in business is exciting and it can give people greater employment certainty, greater flexibility and greater earning power. We are here to help make that business dream a reality.

“But that takes a serious evaluation of your skills and your ideas, to ensure you stand the best possible chance of success.”

Blue Orchid is the contracted business support agency in Oldham, delivering the Intensive Start Up Support programme, financed by the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

The programme is also funded by the NWDA, European Regional Development Fund and Oldham Council.

For further details email: startup@theblueorchid.co.uk  or contact 01942 862 832.