FREE services are being offered to Wyre Forest start-up companies as part of a Pay it Forward initiative.

Wyre Forest Enterprise Champions involves established local business owners working with the district council to support National Enterprise Week between November 17 and 23.

The scheme is open to pre-start and new businesses – up to one year of trading – based in Wyre Forest.

Businesses will be able to apply for a range of services and products including photography, IT support, public relations, produce merchandise and print, with several packages on offer.

Terry Livesey, a Kidderminster photographer and one of the contributors to the initiative, said: “This scheme was born out of our desire to encourage a stronger, local business community, to recognise the support that they – and we – have received starting their businesses and to pay it forward.”

District councillor John Campion, cabinet member for planning and regeneration, said: “We are delighted to support local businesses with this scheme.

“It is exactly the sort of initiative we want to nurture and we hope new start ups will take us this excellent offer.

“We have assisted the businesses to structure the scheme, have developed a promotional plan and application process, will be promoting the scheme and will be administering the application process.

“The businesses that receive the free support will benefit from publicity to promote the scheme and be in a position to give credit to those businesses that are providing the free support.

“It is a win-win situation and we applaud the prospect of the virtuous circle that will result.”

Local businesses involves with the scheme include Henry Pepper PR, Athena clothing, Rotary Printers, KBBS Accounting Services, Painters Solicitors, Mend My Computer and Arrivista business coaching.

For more information, or to download an application form, visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/business-and-work/business-support-and-advice/wyre-forest-enterprise-champions-pay-it-forward.aspx