CERT Ltd

This project was developed as a method of addressing the training and development needs of the long term unemployed. It aimed to assist those wishing to explore self employment as an option during a period when there was no mainstream option available.

CERT concentrated on tackling the barriers preventing the long term unemployed from accessing the existing Enterprise Network and especially the difficulties in starting a business after a long period of unemployment. Included in these were poor credit ratings, lack of savings, reduced confidence levels and poor literacy and numeracy skills as well as a lack of support systems in chaotic lifestyles. The project aimed to reduce these obstacles and provide a framework of developmental support.

The project provided a business planning and assessment process during which participants worked with project staff to develop their own business idea. The project developed an innovative test trading model by using the benefits system to enable participants to engage in a six month enterprise trial. Participants could remain on benefit whilst demonstrating that the business idea had the potential to be successful.

The participants would then take their idea out from the project's umbrella and start their business in their own right as an independently trading enterprise. The project allowed the idea to be tested under the protection of the Community Business project and provided the finance to purchase necessary start up equipment. The participants risked their time and the project risked the finance.

The project proved successful in achieving its goals and getting the long term unemployed into the field of enterprise mainly due to the innovative way it addresses the barriers to the network and the way in which it actively supports small business start up.