Redundant staff turn to self-employment in droves, says Cheshire agency

Jan 14 2010 by Laurie Stocks-Moore, Chester Chronicle

A SHARP hike in people wanting to become self-employed has been spotted in Chester.

A business support agency offering start-up advice across Cheshire says it has seen a new year rise in such enquiries.

Blue Orchid says the majority of business start-up queries are coming from workers who have been made redundant over the last six months and are looking to jump-start their career.

Managing director and Cheshire spokeswoman, Heather Hayes, urged would-be business owners to take advantage of their free and comprehensive business advice service.

“We know that many families across Cheshire have been hit hard by the recession,” she said.

“A lot of able people in settled jobs have suddenly found themselves redundant.

“Some have found it enormously difficult to find work after losing their job and after six months of job hunting are deciding to go it alone and become self-employed.

“Others are seeing redundancy as an immediate opportunity to cash in on their skill set and become their own boss.”

Blue Orchid is offering free, publicly-funded advice to such people in Cheshire and will host a series of advice seminars and workshops.

She added: “We can help people from all backgrounds and offer training and one-to-one mentoring.

“We look at all the big issues from whether being your own boss is right for you to the key building blocks of business such as financial and tax planning, marketing, dealing with banks, and understanding the law.”

They also offer expert advice on getting your product or service right before trading.

For further details, contact Blue Orchid Cheshire by email at: startup@theblueorchid.co.uk or phone: 01244 559 032.