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A new, free support programme has been launched in Devon to help those who are unemployed or at risk of losing their jobs and considering starting their own social enterprise.

Devon County Council and The School for Social Entrepreneurs - Dartington are working together on the which aims to provide local people with the skills, confidence and support they need to establish a social enterprise and make a difference to their local communities.

Participants in the online learning initiative, which is made up of 10 weekday sessions spread over eight weeks, will have the chance to learn from experts and existing entrepreneurs. These experts teach resilience, and create a supportive network of people who understand the challenges they are facing.

Government figures show that more than 50,000 people in the south west have lost their jobs since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, and many others face dramatically reduced hours, uncertain futures and prolonged periods on furlough.

At the same time, the crisis has highlighted just how many people want to step up and make a difference to their local area; pulling together to create stronger, kinder and more resilient communities.

Devon already has one of the largest communities of social entrepreneurs in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ today and they range from individual people working in their communities to large service providers such as Livewell South West and universities.

The School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) provides support for entrepreneurs who want to set up businesses that are able to give back to people and planet through their activities or profits - social entrepreneurs.