THE Federation of Small Businesses has launched a search for more young members.

The organisation that represents the small business owner has introduced FSB Connect to opening up new types of partnership working, new communication channels and to find new ways to engage with a broader and younger range of business people so they have a better understanding of the FSB and the support it provides to members.

A key component of the initiative is to create a growing network of regional ‘Connectors’, FSB members who are well-placed to promote the Connect programme and to engage pro-actively with young people with diverse backgrounds.

In the FSB Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire region, that role will be undertaken by Richard Nuttall, business centre manager and mentor for Shropshire Youth Support Trust, who manages and runs their Enterprise Centre in Telford. SYST exists to help young people, typically aged 18-30, to start a business. The Business Centre offers a fully equipped, professional shared workspace with access to computers, desks and meeting spaces, which can be rented on a daily or monthly basis. The Centre also has 14 self-contained offices in a range of sizes and which can be rented on a monthly basis at subsidised terms.

Mr Nuttall said: "SYST, in partnership with the London Youth Support Trust, has more than 15 years of experience of working with young people and helping them to get their business up and running successfully. In addition to the workspace and offices on offer, we provide free support, advice and introductions to other businesses and organisations that provide start up support. I am sure that these connections will help me to deliver the FSB Connect programme in the region and I look forward to helping more young people discover the benefits of FSB membership”.