The British Business Bank has provided nearly £150m in loans to unemployed individuals since 2012, representing 22% of the government-backed start-up loans programme. The news coincides with the launch of the Fresh Start Guide, created with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HMRC, to assist unemployed people in exploring self-employment. The guide will be available at over 600 job centres and through 25,000 work coaches. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden commented: "Starting your own business can be a powerful way to take control of your future."
