Help for disabled to start business

4:00pm Thursday 10th January 2008

Have you ever thought of starting your own business and are disabled?

Ready to Start, a new initiative which helps disabled people begin their own business is being championed by Anne Snelgrove, MP for South Swindon.

The scheme, which throws a lifeline to disabled entrepreneurs right across the UK, is run by the charity Leonard Cheshire Disability, in partnership with Barclays.

It was launched in Swindon in September 2007.

Clients who sign up are paired with a business buddy, who will be on hand to offer support and help them overcome the common obstacles that people face when starting up a business.

Snelgrove said: "I attended the launch of this scheme in my constituency back in September and I've talked openly about its benefits to my colleagues during a third sector review debate in Westminster at the time.

"Ready to Start equips its disabled clients with the essential information to set up and succeed in the world of business.

"To me the scheme plays a vital role in generating opportunities for disabled people in the local economy because it helps motivate self starters to create genuine employment opportunities."

Johnny Coleman, Ready to Start co-ordinator for the South West, said: "If you are disabled, or know someone who is, and have ever thought of starting your own business in Swindon then we can help.

"Ready to Start offers disabled entrepreneurs free computer equipment and software, training, start-up advice and information about relevant trade bodies and business associations to help network locally."

Paul Jackson, Barclays regional community manager, said: "Right from the beginning when a client signs up for Ready to Start they team up and form a special relationship with a business buddy who is on hand to offer support and encouragement to help move their business planning forward."

This scheme will seek to enable 600 disabled people to start their own business over three years.

Disabled clients will receive equipment, training and support and will be matched with a mentor from Barclays.

A community investment of over £3m is being provided to enable Leonard Cheshire Disability to deliver this programme.

Over three years, local programmes will be rolled out in 27 towns and cities across England and Wales.

Leonard Cheshire Disability supports more than 21,000 disabled people in the UK and works in 52 countries.To find out more visit the website or call Johnny Coleman on 01666 505798.

Your Neighbourhood News