Burt Calls For More Council Help For Small Businesses And Jobless (West Worcestershire Liberal Democrats)

West Worcestershire Liberal Democrats <contact.us@westworcslibdems.org.uk>

Burt Calls For More Council Help For Small Businesses And Jobless

March 17, 2009 2:25 PM

Local Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, Richard Burt is urging councils in Worcestershire to do more to help small businesses and help people find new jobs.

Mr Burt has today written to CEOs at Malvern Hills, Wychavon and Worcestershire County Councils asking them and their council leaders to take the lead in setting up weekly job clubs and to sign the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Small Business Accord.

Mr Burt's call follows talks and surveys that he has carried out with business owners and individuals across Worcestershire.

"The employment outlook in the county is gloomy with 1 in 5 businesses surveyed reporting that that they are laying off staff now or in the near future," he said.

"There is no quick fix for the economy so we need to do all we can now to help local business survive and to get people back into work as quickly as possible.

"I believe that our local councils can play an active role in building stronger relations with local business and providing the driving force necessary to make a real difference.

"Weekly job clubs could provide a vital focus and mutual support for those seeking new employment. No-one should feel isolated and left behind having suffered the loss of their job and income.

"Our councils could provide the lead, involving Jobcentre Plus, Business Link, the Learning and Skills Council, colleges, universities and charities.

"Private sector specialists could also be encouraged to provide pro bono help with interview techniques, CVs and personal coaching.

"The FSB Small Business Accord has already been signed by councils elsewhere in the West Midlands. It is a voluntary code designed to encourage more active involvement with local business in council decision making on issues like parking, business rate relief and procurement of council services which are vital to the local economy.

"Councils can and should play a key role in helping get local people and local businesses back to work," added Mr Burt.