Disabled entrepreneurs get lifeline (From Oxford Mail)

Disabled entrepreneurs get lifeline

8:22pm Wednesday 2nd January 2008 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

Disabled people in north Oxfordshire who want to run their own businesses have been thrown a lifeline by the Leonard Cheshire organisation.

A support and advice scheme, Ready To Start, has been launched in Banbury with Barclays Bank.

It is intended to help overcome the reluctance of bosses to employ people with disabilities by enabling them to work for themselves.

Beccy Clacy, scheme co-ordinator for the region, said: "We can help anyone who is disabled and wants to start their own business.

"Disabled people experience disadvantage and discrimination every day, largely through ignorance.

"The barriers that disabled people face getting into work are significant and unacceptable."

Ready to Start offers disabled entrepreneurs free computer equipment and software, training, start-up advice, and information about relevant trade bodies and business associations.

Clients who sign up are paired with a business buddy, who is on hand to offer support and help with day-to-day problems. Information is available at www.readytostart.org.uk Leonard Cheshire Disability supports more than 21,000 disabled people in the UK and works in 52 countries. It campaigns for change and provides services giving disabled people the chance to live life their way.