BUDDING entrepreneurs are being given a helping hand to pursue a path into selfemployment.

East Durham Business Service (EDBS), based at Novus Business Centre, in Peterlee, east Durham, is launching a programme to help people who want to run their own business.

There are 15 places available on the fully-funded course, which is aimed at individuals on Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will gain a qualification certifying their insight into preparing to run a company.

Denise Fielding, EDBS operations director, said: “This is designed for people who may wish to start a business in the future.

“We’ve secured funding, which will give participants a much better understanding of what it takes to run a business. These fully-funded places are worth over £700 and are available on a first come, first served basis.”

Ms Fielding said EDBS offers support to people across the area who have an idea they want to turn into a reality.

She added: “We’ll take them through a complete programme of learning, outlining all the key aspects of launching a business.”

The course will run over six weeks - every Tuesday and Thursday between 9.30am and 4pm - from EDBS’ offices at Judson Road, Peterlee, and start on Tuesday, April 25.

Participants must be over 19-yearsold and be unemployed or economically inactive.

Contact 0191-586-3366 for more information.