A council for voluntary service has helped 14 people start their own micro-businesses.

The Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale Council for Voluntary Service (BPRCVS) held an event on October 18 to showcase the achievements of their UK Shared Prosperity People and Skills Steps to Employment project.

The project, which started in April this year, provided support to help participants develop business ideas and turn them into functioning micro-businesses.

Participants were encouraged to share thoughts and inspiration to help get their ideas off the ground, which can begin to generate an income.

Picture 1 – Oliver Ryan MP talking to and looking at products from Petals and PolishesPicture 1 – Oliver Ryan MP talking to and looking at products from Petals and Polishes (Image: Supplied)

The event featured four Burnley-based businesses started through the project: Petals and Polishes, Frame Fusion Studios, Alternative Knitwear by Paula, and Chrissy’s Crystals.

All 14 participants in the project were described as "economically inactive", often unable to enter traditional employment due to commitments such as childcare, disabilities, or studies.

The project focused on boosting self-esteem and resilience, with the aim of helping participants see that they can create a successful business.

Oliver Ryan MP and project coordinator, Lisa RossOliver Ryan MP and project coordinator, Lisa Ross (Image: Supplied)

Project coordinator, Lisa Ross, said: "This was a great opportunity to showcase the amazing and inspirational stories of our clients.

"We are so proud of the ongoing achievements.

"We offer employment support through wellbeing, confidence building and developing ambition.

"The results speak for themselves."

Kelly, of Petals and PolishesKelly, of Petals and Polishes (Image: Supplied)

Kelly, from Petals and Polishes, said: "The project was a great opportunity and chance to change my future.

"I felt I was in a safe space, where I could develop my micro setup.

"It has boosted my confidence and self-worth through volunteering, training and developing my focus."

The event was attended by Burnley's MP, Oliver Ryan, who said: "I was pleased to be invited to join the graduation event and congratulate the recent graduates on their successful new small businesses.

"My heartfelt congratulations again to those graduates I had the pleasure to meet, and the best of luck with their future endeavours."