Background
The Government is committed to making the UK the best place in the world to start and grow a business. Small businesses make a significant contribution to the health of the UK economy and the diversity of opportunity in our society. There are 3.8 million small businesses in the UK. They employ 12.6 million people, representing 56% of the private sector workforce.
Small businesses make an important contribution to improving the productivity of UK businesses and they are a valuable source of innovation and new ways of doing things. Business support agencies have a pivotal role and their effectiveness will impact the governments’ objective to raise the rate of UK productivity and growth.
Aims
The aim is to develop a programme of pilot activities in local disadvantaged communities in Kent (South East England) , which will enable 300 disadvantaged people to access and share and succeed in a confidence building, motivation and learning programme built around the establishment and running of a simulated team based business. The programme will link the mainstream business support agencies into local community networks in areas of disadvantage.
Objectives
- To develop networking links to build bridges between mainstream business start up support agencies, social and community enterprise support organisations, local businesses, and advice and guidance agencies.
- To adapt Young Enterprise’s business simulation materials and support materials for use with the target group.
- To develop a training programme for mentors/business advisers.
- To draw upon experience in other EU member states to enrich the process and to feed into a wider aim - to promote and develop the climate and culture of enterprise.
- To provide induction, including organised trips to local firms, with optional work experience opportunities
- To use the Rickter assessment and motivational measurement package and other support activity, linked to individual guidance and counselling and regular review.
To mentor support for individuals and teams – ‘graduates/alumni’ from the first teams undertaking the programme will be encouraged to act as mentors and advocates for later participants.
- To support as necessary, access to the Princes Trust, local Rotary Clubs etc
- To provide access to locally based vocational information advice and guidance
- To provide opportunities to volunteer on local community and environmental projects
Target Groups
Unemployed, without status, social beneficiaries, asylum seekers, disabled people, substance abusers, exoffenders, other discriminated group (religion, sexual orientation)
