How should the government support the self-employed?

Entrepreneur Julie Deane has launched a survey as part of her review into self-employment.

The founder of the Cambridge Satchel Company was appointed by the prime minister in July to run an independent study and understand how self-employed individuals might be better supported to start, maintain and grow their businesses.

A survey has gone live today which aims to:

• Gain a better understanding of the different types of self-employment and self-employed

• Uncover the information and advice available to those starting out and assessing the difficulties faced by those beginning self-employment

• Understand any barriers or challenges faced by those hoping to maintain and grow their small businesses, taking into account mortgages, pregnancy, parenthood and retirement

• Look at the support available for those running and growing a business, including shared working spaces, mentoring and networking schemes

You can take part in the survey here.

As one of the UK's biggest networks for small business owners and the self-employed we have been vocal in our call for better support. In our 10 point wish list for what the government should do in 2015 we demanded that ministers ensure the self-employed enjoy the same benefits as employees including health insurance, pension provision and mortgage entitlement.

We encourage Enterprise Nation members to contribute to this review to ensure your voice is heard.

You can share your feedback with us by commenting below or emailing [dan@enterprisenation.com](mailto:%64%61%6e%40%65%6e%74%65%72%70%72%69%73%65%6e%61%74%69%6f%6e%2e%63%6f%6d?subject=Self-employment review "dan@enterprisenation.com") and we will let Julie Deane know. We have also approached the government about how you can directly share your opinions and experiences.

Watch this space!