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Test Trading, F/T Carer, New Deal, Govmt "Emergency Budget"

Not sure if this is posted in the correct place!

Forgive me if this is jumbled!

I am currently caring full time for my partner who is on DLA and IB, I get CA and IS. I have a business idea, have done the workshops and courses through Business Link and am furnished with most of the info I need.

Here is my thing, before I can go self employed and start my business, I need to know that I am going to be able to afford to live for the first few months of trading. Now I know that I should be eligible to join the "New Deal for Partners" scheme which I know would protect my benefits for the first few months of trading until the business has proved itself through the "Test Trading" phase.

From what I can gather, the Govmt's "Emergency Budget" put paid to "Test Trading" and have plans to start rolling in their new "Works Programme" starting Spring next year. I also know that in a year or so's time, they will be introducing an "Enterprise Allowance".

What I want to know is, what is happening in the mean time? Is test trading definitely gone? Is there an alternative?

If I become self employed and set up my business, I will be at home all day to look after my partner and yet still earn an income doing something I love. Does anyone know of any schemes which would help protect my benefits or cover my bills until the business is up and running and making money? Is anyone else in a similar situation?

All input would be most welcome! Thanks
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