Support for the Unemployed
Wenta launches new support programme for the unemployed
Wenta is pleased to announce the launch of its new contract with the Job Centre Plus, a support programme for the unemployed across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
The New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) programme, fully funded by the Job Centre Plus, will provide eligible applicants with free, one to one business support and guidance to help entrepreneurs become self employed.
The NEA programme will mentor clients throughout the stages of starting a business. The programme is available for anyone who has been claiming Job Seekers Allowance for more than 6 months and all applicants must be 18 years or older. All referrals must come via JobCentre Plus.
Peter Cabon, Director of Advisory and Education at Wenta, says, “Recent unemployment figures have shown a significant rise in the past months* and our New Enterprise Allowance scheme is exactly what is needed. The programme is perfect for those who have been unemployed and are looking to start in business. The scheme provides clients with that much needed support and advice, as well as the confidence to take the steps towards becoming their own boss”.
Both in preparing their business plan and for the first 26 weeks of trading clients will have access to support from their business advisor. Wenta will match clients to an appropriate business mentor who will advise on local market conditions/research, sales/marketing, forecasting and budgeting so helping them to complete their business plan.In addition, Wenta can help clients in applying for an NEA loan of up to £1000 should this be required to start their business. Once trading, clients are able to run their businesses safe in the knowledge their business mentor is only a phone call away.
Wenta also offer a variety of other business support that clients may utilise, including our comprehensive events and training programme.
The New Enterprise Allowance programme is delivered by Wenta for all Job Centres across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. Those interested in this programme should contact their local JobCentre Plus advisor.
*The number of people unemployed in the UK rose by 38,000 to 2.49 million in the three months to June 2011. This took the jobless rate from 7.7% to 7.9%. Statistics courtesy of the Office for National Statistics..
