News from Cornwall Labour

‘Be the Boss’ – new business start-up scheme to help Cornwall’s veterans

Labour’s prospective MP for Truro and Falmouth, Charlotte MacKenzie, has welcomed a new scheme to provide ex-service personnel with loans and grants to help them start up their own business.

The Labour Government has announced the “Be the Boss” enterprise scheme which will be delivered by the Royal British Legion throughout the UK.

Charlotte MacKenzie said: “Veterans in Cornwall who have bravely served their country deserve help to get a business going. This scheme will take business ideas off the drawing board and made into reality.

“I would urge veterans who might be thinking of setting up a business to get in touch with the Royal British Legion to see what support they can access.

“I know from visiting Truro Citizen’s Advice Bureau and the Royal British Legion money and benefits advice service that additional support can make all the difference to ex-service personnel in Cornwall.”

Business Minister Lord Drayson said: “In my time at Defence, I’ve been inspired by the talent, capability and can-do attitude of the armed forces. Those are exactly the qualities you need in business too, but ex-service personnel are under-represented when it comes to start ups and self-employment.

“This scheme puts that right, helping former servicemen and women to be their own boss and go on contributing to our society.”

Veterans Minister Kevan Jones said: “So many members of the Armed Forces have the skills and discipline to make a success of their own business. This scheme will provide them with the tools – and confidence – to develop sound business plans, as well as funding start-up costs. It is another example of our commitment to the men and women who have served our country.”

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