Useful Start-up Information

There are a lot of things to think about when starting and running a business. Useful information on a range of relevant topics is shown below.

Please Note: The Prince's Trust cannot take any responsibility and makes no warranties, representations or undertakings about the content of any website accessed by hypertext link and links should not be taken as an endorsement of any kind. The Prince's Trust has no control over the availability of the linked pages.

Health and Safety

The Health and Safety Executive provide lots of useful information and free leaflets on their website www.hse.gov.uk. One of the most relevant leaflets is an introduction to health and safety in small businesses, you can access it here. 

HMRC

You must register as self employed with HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs) within three months of starting your business. Information on registering, plus lots of other useful information relating to topics below can be found on their website www.hmrc.gov.uk

  • Self assessment tax returns
  • VAT
  • National Insurance

 

HMRC also offer lots of free workshops on topics such as:

  • Becoming self employed
  • Taking on your first employee

These can be booked here 

Horsesmouth

Horsesmouth is a social network for informal mentoring, where you can give and gain advice on lots of different topics - business, relationships, health, beliefs and many more. You can search for a mentor, be a mentor, or simply browse the inspirational profiles and stories on the site. It's safe and it's free.

The Small Business Journey

The Small Business Journey, created and endorsed by the Small Business Consortium helps small businesses to benefit through behaving responsibly. You can read up on business principles like:

  • Creating a sustainable business
  • Making your business green
  • Embracing equality and diversity

Lots of other useful information and guidance can be found on their website as well as tips on where to go for further advice in your region.

Social Enterprise Coalition

If you’re thinking of setting up a Social Enterprise or just want to find out more about what being a Social Enterprise means, this website can tell you more about the business model, the benefits of being a Social Enterprise and where to go for support, advice and events.

Understanding Credit Scores

Credit scores can be confusing to understand but they are very important when you are trying to access start up funding. We have produced this factsheet to help you understand what they are, how they are calculated and how you can try to improve your score.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Citizen's Advice Bureau provides benefits, debt and employment advice in British Sign Language which can be found on their website.