The Department is continuing to work with the Department for Work and Pensions to raise the profile of enterprise among jobseekers, including young women, and help them access the advice and support they need. Building on the success of the self-employment support provided under the “Six Month Offer”, access to intensive business start-up support and advice through Business Link is due to be extended to those who have been unemployed for 13 weeks or more. In addition, eligible jobseekers will be able to receive the tax-free Self-Employment Credit of £50 a week for up to 16 weeks to help with the transition from benefits to work, including self-employment.
Female entrepreneurship is also being encouraged through the “Flying Start—Make It Happen” programme, where 5,000 more places have been made available to provide unemployed graduates with the help and support they need to become successful entrepreneurs and start their own business.