Ian Purdon, Managing Director of Business Support, worked for many years as the Practice Manager of a firm of Chartered Accountants.
During that time he came across numerous businesses that were struggling to keep their heads above water simply because they were 'drowning' in paperwork.
For many, the dream of having their own business had turned into a nightmare, the sharks were circling - records were never kept up to date so vital management information was not available and important decisions were based on nothing more than guesswork; the time that had to be spent on payroll and personnel issues increased as the businesses expanded; and there was the constant worry that VAT Returns were not being completed accurately and that at some point the VAT man would descend to inspect their workings!
Ian knew of one or two bookkeepers but certainly not a firm able to offer a dedicated, comprehensive and professional bookkeeping and payroll service.
Here was an opportunity to offer a complete support service to businesses struggling with the everyday problems of modern commercial life.
Thus, on the 1st July 1993, Business Support (or, as it was originally called, 'book-keepers') came into being.
Ian wanted the new company to be professional but at the same time approachable, and over the years he has built up a team of qualified and experienced specialists who can handle the essentials of running a business.
Directors, partners, and sole proprietors alike have enjoyed the confidence that comes from knowing that there is someone looking after the basics of their business while they take it forward.
They also enjoy the security of having someone to turn to, offering support and advice when things have gone, or are starting to go, wrong.
Of course, wherever possible, Business Support will deal with you directly on any issue you may have but, as a result of its excellent reputation, it also has access to specialists in the fields of VAT (to act on your behalf in contentious disputes, to Tribunal if necessary) and Employment Law (to advise on contracts, employee disputes etc.).
But remember, prevention is always better than cure - it is far better to receive a VAT planning report than a VAT assessment and time spent in issuing contracts is preferable to time spent at an Employment Tribunal.