Help and Advice for Farmers

The ICEP Project Team will lead in developing ICEP and ensure action on the ground fulfils the vision. One of its key roles will be to provide support and advice to a range of projects that will be delivered by individual rural businesses and partner organisations. The Team presently consists of a Project Officer who is supported by the Sustainable Environment and Development Division of Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, The Mersey Forest Team and the ICEP Steering Group and ICEP Partnership.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Project Officer Jonathan Jackson to discuss your proposals or to seek further advice.

Business Advice for Farmers

There is a range of support available to Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) including farms and related rural businesses. The level of advice varies from an initial action plan and review of the business to a full business and management strategy. (More...)

Training

Across Merseyside and the Northwest there is a range of providers of vocational training for rural businesses. While there is no dedicated funding for training for rural businesses in Merseyside, some providers have accessed funding from the European Social Fund to support the sector. (More...)

Support and Advice for Farmers Creating Rural Tourism

Linked attractions and facilities are key magnets for visitors and there is no reason why the rural sector cannot benefit by providing accommodation , local food and their own rural based attractions. (More...)

Local Business Link/Small Business Service

Business link is established to support all small and medium sized enterprises within their area with information and advice. They co-ordinate a range of local business support services in the area and provide access to specialists that may be able to offer assistance. There is an overriding aim to improve the competitiveness of businesses through affordable and relevant support. In addition, they have secured funding to offer subsidised support for some types of advice. For further information contact them on 0845 330 0151 or via www.gme.org.uk. (More...)