Working for yourself

WorkWell is a programme that supports people with health conditions to start, stay or succeed in work, including those who are self-employed. WorkWell can offer a range of support, including:

• a personal assessment of your needs to understand what support might work best for your circumstances
• personalised, goal-based plans to address your physical, mental wellbeing, and social needs to help you return to and/or thrive in work
• access and referral to local and community-based work and health support services, including:
• musculoskeletal (MSK) assessments and treatment support for conditions which affect all areas of the body including the spine, arms, legs, hands and feet
• support to access non-medical wellbeing support, services and activities, for example volunteering, arts activities, group learning, gardening, befriending, cookery, healthy eating advice and a range of sports
• impartial careers advice, information, guidance and support to access jobs, skills and training, including help to progress in work
• support for employers to understand your needs and advice on how to provide workplace adjustments that support you (employers will only be contacted with your permission)Coaching and support

Find out more about WorkWell and if you are eligible.

Join a cohort of other budding entrepreneurs to explore your ideas for a business or social enterprise and be guided through the basics of researching, modelling, testing and planning your venture in a structured and supportive environment. 

Aspire Business provides refugees with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to create and operate successful businesses. Also assists entrepreneurs in navigating the various challenges of starting a business, such as legal, financial, and marketing.

In collaboration with Salford City Council, PeoplePlus Enterprise offers a business growth programme for self-employed and freelance residents. Participants receive six months of business mentoring with a dedicated business coach to help grow their business, increase turnover, and achieve their goals. The programme is government-funded and free for participants.

The LearningPlus platform offers interactive remote training and assessment, which is accessible remotely 24/7. It features a comprehensive list of modules designed to support both startups and existing businesses in their growth journey. Learners can choose between accredited courses and non-accredited options, and because learning is remote, it can be done at the learner’s own pace, anywhere, any time. Through the unique offer, each learner is also paired with an experienced Business Coach who provides dedicated support and guidance throughout their journey. 

Located at the heart of Salford's Innovation Triangle, the Salford Innovation Forum provides direct support from an Innovation Director and access to a nationwide network to help businesses scale up. They offer one-on-one business support, access to a network of mentors, and connections to funding opportunities. The forum also hosts events and workshops to expand expertise and promote businesses.

Salford Community Leisure offer free, tailored support to new businesses and entrepreneurs through workshops and events. Our SME Champion will provide one-to-one support and create a business information plan specific to you.

The Business Group provides support to new, emerging and established businesses and has long been acknowledged as an important part of the City of Salford’s business support infrastructure.