PRIME time workshops to help create mature entrepreneurs

The Prince’s Initiative for Mature Enterprise (PRIME), which was set up by the Prince of Wales, will deliver a three-day business training course in Leeds to aspiring mature entrepreneurs, with the first of three interactive workshops taking place on March 31.

The course, which is spread over eight weeks and includes coursework, will be held at the West Yorkshire Playhouse and will take people over the age of 50 through the challenging process of starting a business, including managing accounts, understanding legal requirements and how to write a business plan.

PRIME is also hosting a business club on April 2 at the Enterprise Foundation, in Headingley, Leeds. On the day, people will be able to network with other business contacts and listen to business advice from a guest speaker.

There are currently 45,400 people who work for themselves in Leeds. PRIME promotes self-employment as a viable route into sustainable employment and a possible alternative for the 6,400 unemployed over 50s in the area.

Nicky Templeton, PRIME’s development manager, said: “Older people are more likely to be out of work for a long time, more so than any other age group, and this is a shocking state of affairs.

“We want to see unemployed people over the age of 50 make a real difference to their lives and setting up their own businesses could lead to financial independence, as well as benefits for their families, local communities and the wider economy.”

Michael Bursey, general manager at The Enterprise Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting PRIME with their business clubs, encouraging older workers to start their own enterprises.”

Further details can be found at www.prime.org.uk/courses or by calling 0845 862 2023.