By Linzi Watson

Last updated 11:15, Monday, 28 July 2008

BUSINESSWOMEN in Brampton will be given real advice on how to deal with the credit crunch with the help of a new support group in the town.

‘Sharing ideas’: Claire Emerson, from Brampton, who runs Emerson & Co chartered Accountants, is a member of the Women’s Business Group

The Women’s Business Group, who plan to meet regularly and share invaluable tips, are calling on more local women to join up.

Claire Emerson, who runs the Emerson & Co chartered accountancy business from her home in Brampton, said that some small businesses are being hard hit by the current financial crisis.

She said: “You get to see different aspects of business in the group because members all come from a variety of fields.

“We all have different experiences but the same sort of ideas apply.

“The credit crunch is having an effect on everyone at the moment, including local businesses.

“One thing we do within the group is refer clients to each other which is a great bit of promotion and free advertising. We also share ideas on how to save money.”

The group are also working alongside local eco-group Sustainable Brampton.

Claire added: “The issue of sustainability is something we are also looking into – sourcing things on our doorstep without having to go out with the area.”

The business group was initially set up two years ago and was previously part of the rural women’s network.

When the network lost funding, a number of self-financing local groups were set up.

But the Brampton-based group has lost momentum over recent months with members deciding to relaunch in the face of the credit crunch.

Fellow members Tricia Meynell ,who runs a photography business in Castle Carrock, said: “We support each other and share ideas and offer advice and guidance.

“Starting out in business can be really scary.

“It is a huge learning curve and everyone makes big mistakes because you don’t know what you are doing and you waste money here and there.

“And with small business you don’t expect to have results in the first year.

“Its great to have a network of people who have been there and who can guide you through.”

The group, which has up to 20 members, also offers members access to training courses allows them to network and pick up business.

It is open to women across north Cumbria and the official re-launch meeting will be held on September 24 at 7.30pm in the Moot Hall, Brampton.

Tricia said: “I have had lots of business out of being a member, it has definitely been worth it.”