This section includes latest news for businesses, as well as copies of the SSEP newsletter and other articles and press releases that have appeared in the local, regional and national press.
Latest news
Mind Your Own Business
The Mind Your Own Business business support website was recently launched at the SSEP conference. This Swindon business community website is for start-up or early stage businesses, where they can ask questions, send emails, grow and learn about latest local news. The Mind Your Own Business website is an SSEP initiative designed to specifically help Swindon business start-up and grow, complementing existing support services in the town. It provides peer support and facilitates networking and inter-trading and has been devised by local successful entrepreneurs. See www.mindyourownbusiness.me
Seasonal wreaths
Energy2 continues to deliver its innovative Training for Employment project to help people with disabilities or health conditions move into employment. It is an effective way for employers to find committed and talented staff too.
Energy2 is underpinned by commercial activities to ensure its future post funding. Early in 2010 Energy2burn will come online and start producing biomass fuel in the form of woodpellets for commercial and domestic heating. In advance of this, Energy2grow is producing seasonal wreaths for sale in various colour schemes at competitive prices. Check them out at www.energy2.org.uk and place an order soon to reserve your traditional festive decoration for workplace or home.
For further information about this project that is funded by the European Social Fund and the Learning and Skills Council speak to Ann King on 01793 48063.
Free internet access
Trailblazing Swindon Borough Council is working with the private sector to make Swindon the first town in the UK to provide free internet access for all its residents.
University Challenge
Letter to Anne Snelgrove, MP, about Swindon's successful bid to be considered for the University Challenge programme.
Free grafitti removal service
Swindon Borough Council has launched a free graffiti removal service for small businesses. The aim is to assist small businesses during the recession whilst also improving our environment. This offer will initially last until 31st March 2010, when it will then be assessed.
Businesses will be requested to sign a disclaimer to give permission for the works to be completed. Any business requesting this service should contact 445501.
Job Seekers Allowance Figures continues to fall
See the latest update for the Job Seekers Allowance Claimant count in Swindon. It is a measure of unemployment and the picture is starting to look brighter in Swindon as Swindon Job Seekers Allowance Figures continues to fall. See document as a pdf.
Town centre Christmas campaign
Working closely with inSwindon, the Brunel Centre, and other town centre businesses, the SSEP is rolling out a proactive marketing campaign to attract shoppers to the town centre in the run up to Christmas. Spearheaded by the Council's recent resolution to lower car parking charges in four of the town centre's car parks, the campaign also spells out the variety and quality of shopping available, and the range of events and activities that will be going on over the next three months. The campaign will consist of advertising in the Swindon Advertiser, a radio campaign on Heart FM, and a poster campaign in competitor town and city centres.
The campaign started with the introduction of the reduced car parking charges in early October, and already retailers are reporting an increase in footfall and spend. Shoppers themselves are also clearly impressed as they are now able to park for up to 4 hours for only £2.00.
InSwindon has more details of the campaign - go to www.eventsinswindon.co.uk