Lack of support services, poor access to finance and the ‘burden of proving disability’ have been identified by the Lilac Review as some of the key challenges facing the UK’s disabled entrepreneurial community.
Supported by the UK Government, the two-year independent study into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs with disabilities is the first to highlight preliminary findings and recommendations for future governments, financial services and support organizations. An interim report was published.
The findings range from a “shared conflict” between access to finance, wellbeing and a lack of easily accessible support provision.
The review committee, co-chaired by Disability Minister Mims Davis, Victoria Jenkins, founder of fashion brand Anheiden, and Small Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake, highlighted the need to simplify the process of supporting entrepreneurs. A list of recommendations was published. Consulting initiatives and member initiatives.
The findings also highlight the “need” to move to a “trust-based” approach when it comes to re-evaluating conditions across the lifespan, with the team saying that doing so would reduce “government administrative costs and repeated pressures on entrepreneurs.” will be reduced.” Justify the need for their support. ”
A final report with further recommendations and actions to be taken is expected to be published by the end of next year.
Hollinrake said the recommendations “lead the way” to remove barriers faced by the disabled entrepreneurial community.
“This action will contribute to our commitment to making the UK a great place for everyone to start and grow their own business,” Hollinrake added.
The review will be led by campaign group Small Business Britain, whose last year’s ‘Disability and Entrepreneurship’ report highlighted the need for support from society as a whole and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs with disabilities. It emerged in response to the expressed need for increased awareness of the issue.
The charity estimates that ‘levelling up’ the potential of disabled entrepreneurs could increase business turnover in the UK by £230bn.
“Not only is this the right thing to do, it will bring great economic opportunity to this country as businesses and startups will be given the freedom and support to grow and prosper,” Davis said.
