With around 210,000 members, of which 1,179 are currently nurseries, it is said to be the largest organisation representing small and medium-sized businesses within the UK.
Benefits include:
- Access to legal advice from qualified lawyers 24 hours a day throughout the year
- Information and documentation on employment, tax and commercial law through the Federation members-only website
- Representation by a consultancy service before or after meetings, hearings or tribunals relating to corporation or income tax and PAYE (Employer Compliance disputes)
- Criminal prosecution defence in areas such as Health and Safety at Work and the Food Safety Act
- A payment of up to £100 per day to cover for anyone called for jury service
- A Business Banking package with free banking, interest on credit balances and fee-free overdrafts
- Mobile credit card terminals at a preferential rate, to accept payment via a debit or credit card
A membership fee is payable, based on the size of the business in terms of the number of staff employed. This starts at £170 each year for those employing between one and four people and rises on an incremental scale to £780pa for those employing between 101 and 150. A separate fee structure is in place for those employing 151-plus. As many nurseries fall into the small business category, it would seem to be an economical way to benefit from professional support.
In North Tyneside, the main benefit has been perceived as a reduction in legal fees. This, of course, impacts directly upon profits and in turn, the overall sustainability of the business.
To join, an application form can be filled in online, and a local representative will then make contact. www.fsb.org.co or telephone 01253 336000.
Lynn Bryden is business and finance support officer at Sure Start Strategic Partnership, Tyne & Wear (www.northtyneside.gov.uk).
