It has apparently proved successful during the trial run in Merseyside this year, but will the Government’s New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) prove itself as effective nationwide? The scheme works with the long-term unemployed (receiving Jobseekers Allowance for at least 26 weeks) to provide them with the opportunity to start their own small business by offering access to a business mentor who will work with entrereneurs to put together business plans. They will also receive a £65 per week stipend for the first thirteen weeks (reducing to £33 per week for the subsequent thirteen weeks) and in addition the entrepreneurs will have access to a £1,000 business loan.