Initiative’s network day helps unemployed with their ideas for start-ups

AN initiative which aims to help unemployed people with business ideas start up their own companies held its first Barter to Business event, attended by 80 people. Chamber Enterprise Humber, which is part of Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, runs two programmes, namely the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) and the Work Programme, to assist those on Jobseeker’s Allowance set up businesses. Jenny Brambles, business adviser for Chamber Enterprise Humber, who has her own business called Face to Face Networking, organised last week’s event.

She said since it was founded in July, Chamber Enterprise Humber has helped with the setting up of 70 new businesses in the Hull area.

Ms Brambles said: “The purpose was to give the clients an opportunity to network and feel comfortable, as well as showcase their businesses to each other and for them to be able to create a busin- ess.”

Six guests, who were representatives from accountancy, insurance and law firms, attended, along with the MP for West Hull and Hessle, Alan Johnson.

Ms Brambles said Chamber Enterprise Humber looks at how viable the client’s business idea is, helps write a business plan and provides key contacts.