Support available to help people become self-employed and offer services that improve health and wellbeing

Entrepreneurially minded folk who want to make a difference in Bath and North East Somerset are now able to call on local charity, West of England Rural Network (WERN) to help them navigate the complexities of starting up their own business.

The micro-enterprise support service – previously operated in partnership with Community Catalysts – was transferred to WERN in April and has been made possible by grant funding from Bath and North East Somerset Council.

The initiative aims to increase the number and diversity of locally-run businesses that are trading and providing tailored services that enable people to live healthier, happier lives. Examples include, befriending and companionship, life coaching, dance classes, community chess, Nordic walking, and help with gardening and decluttering homes.

WERN’s Project Manager, Michael Auton said, “This service is available to anyone who has a good idea for helping people in their community and wants to become self-employed. Starting up a new business can be daunting but we’re able to show people the ropes; whether that’s help developing a business plan, navigating legal requirements or putting together marketing that showcases skills and experience to attract new customers.

There’s some great examples of micro-enterprises out there. For example, I recently had the pleasure of working with Independent Together which was launched in March. They provide help at home support including companionship, shopping, online administration and decluttering.”   

Councillor Alison Born, Cabinet Member for Adult Care at Bath & North East Somerset Council said, “Some of the best solutions to improving health and wellbeing are locally produced. This scheme is about linking people who want to do good with those in need. The service, previously operated in partnership with Community Catalysts, and now being provided by WERN, will improve choice of support for people looking to improve their health and wellbeing, whilst supporting local livelihoods and promoting local economic development.”

The service is being offered free of change to prospective start-up businesses in the Bath & North East Somerset area.

 ENDS

Notes to editors

West of England Rural Network (WERN) is a charity that exists to facilitate sustainable, resilient and inclusive rural communities where everyone can thrive across the West of England region which includes Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.  It encourages and supports locally-led initiatives, as well as drawing on this experience to make sure rural community needs are understood and acted upon by policy makers and service providers.   

 Anyone interested in becoming self employed with a view to helping people in their community with health and wellbeing is encouraged to get in touch with Michael to arrange an initial conversation, michael@wern.org.uk.

 Media contact: Will Marcombe, Communications Officer, will@wern.org.uk, 07787 358982.