Free advice and support service launched for Rossendale businesses

Start-up and established businesses in Rossendale are being offered free support and advice by a partnership between Rossendale Borough Council’s business support offer Invest in Rossendale and employment law, HR and health and safety firm AfterAthena.

The free business support service called Freemium provides all businesses in Rossendale with guidance tailored to their needs such as getting started or contributing to growth for established firms.

Using an app, Freemium allows businesses instant access to a wealth of expertise on the key areas of employment law, HR and health and safety law from specialists at AfterAthena, part of the Preston, Lancs-based law firm Napthens Group.

Ranging from news updates and document templates to AI-powered tools and messaging channels, Freemium offers a comprehensive toolkit for start-ups and established businesses in Rossendale.

Rob Huntington, chief executive at Rossendale Borough Council, said: “Establishing, expanding or even relocating a business to Rossendale can be daunting but we’re helping to address such concerns by partnering with key third parties such as AfterAthena to support all areas of every business in the Valley.

“Our pioneering Invest in Rossendale business support service isn’t just about providing access to essential resources - it’s about fostering and developing a community of like-minded professionals, allowing Rossendale businesses and others in the area to share best practice and gain invaluable insights from proven experts.”

Oli McCann, partner with AfterAthena and head of Napthens Group’s East Lancashire office, added: “As a Lancashire-based employment law, HR and health and safety practice, we are devoted to supporting the establishment and development of businesses across the county.

“Working with Invest in Rossendale to deliver Freemium, our team led by senior associate solicitor Rebecca Miller (from Rossendale herself), is providing invaluable support and guidance on key issues to help businesses to launch or successfully negotiate the next stage of their expansion.”

To register for Freemium, businesses should click Freemium through Invest in Rossendale and complete the new enquiry form. A member of the team at AfterAthena will register the Rossendale business for the Freemium support service and will be in contact by email to guide the applicant through the process.

Located on the edge of Manchester and the South Pennines with excellent connectivity to Leeds, Liverpool and global supply chains, Rossendale offers convenient and affordable locations for business alongside outstanding scenery and views. It is already home to major businesses such as JJO, Slingco, Linemark, Holland’s Pies and Orthoplastics and boutique brands including Deni-Deni and Sunday Best.