High street retail and hospitality businesses in North Somerset can now benefit from free one-to-one mentoring to support growth.

This is thanks to a new project funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Spearheaded by North Somerset Council’s economy team, this initiative offers one-to-one business mentoring from Riseley Consulting to help businesses address a range of challenges and barriers to growth.

The project builds on the success of previous programmes under the Community Renewal Fund and the Heritage Action Zone.

The one-to-one mentoring support is designed to empower retailers and hospitality businesses registered in North Somerset that employ less than 50 people.

It includes a review of the business plan and social media prior to the mentoring visit, an in-person two to three-hour session with a business mentor at the applicant's business premises, a follow-up appointment to measure progress against outcomes, and the production of a tailored action plan.

Fran Riseley, business coach and mentor at Riseley Consulting, said: "We look forward to working with more high street shops and hospitality businesses in North Somerset.

"We will be providing low or no cost recommendations and ideas to increase sales and profitability.

"Our mentoring focuses on using and enhancing the existing skills and expertise within the business, so is relevant and tailored."

(Image: North Somerset Council)

The funding is limited and will be on a first come, first served basis.

It will be prioritised subject to need and available to approximately 27 eligible North Somerset enterprises.

Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s executive member for spatial planning, placemaking and economy, explained: "We are delighted to offer this free invaluable support to our local high streets, which will further help to foster a thriving business community in North Somerset.

"By providing tailored guidance and resources, we aim to help our retailers and hospitality businesses not only recover but also flourish in today's challenging economic climate.

"We encourage all eligible enterprises to take advantage of this opportunity and benefit from the expertise provided by Riseley Consulting."

In addition to personalised mentoring, this project aims to signpost businesses to other available support.

This includes collaboration with the Hive, the West of England Growth Hub, The Food WorksSW, and Weston College.

North Somerset Council will oversee all initial enquiries through an expression of interest and application process to verify eligibility.

Suitable enterprises will then be referred to Riseley Consulting.

Businesses can apply from September 2 by emailing business@n-somerset.gov.uk.