A ‘drop-in’ session offering guidance on a wide range of business services will take place at Stricklandgate House on Monday, September 22.
Visitors will have the chance to speak directly with professionals in insurance, finance, accounting, property investment, and utilities.
Mike O’Connor, account executive at Simpson & Parsons Insurance Consultants Ltd, said: “It will be a great opportunity for people to ask questions and obtain advice, guidance, and support at no cost.
“Hopefully what they hear might provide them with peace of mind, allow them to take cost-effective decisions and potentially save some money.”
The event is open to both representatives of businesses in the area, and members of the public seeking personal advice.
Attendees will be able to speak with Lindsay Gibson of Emerald Associates, who will offer financial advice on pensions, investments, and inheritance tax planning.
Helen Callaghan of ICS Accounting and Hanley & Co will be available to discuss accounting services, including payroll, annual accounts, and VAT returns.
Tracey Auckland, a partner at Utility Warehouse, will provide guidance on utility costs, covering energy, broadband, and mobile services.
Kate Smith-Potts, co-director of Ample Property Group, will be on hand to advise those interested in earning income through property investment.
Mr O’Connor will offer advice on commercial and personal insurance matters, including employee benefit programmes.
He said: “All of us are members of business networking group South Lakes BNI and we decided it would be great to collaborate and put on this event.
“Many of the services we offer are intertwined – for example, someone making an investment in property will probably also be thinking about getting insurance and looking at their utility bills.
“If people wanted advice about all these topics, they would normally have to make multiple phone calls or visit several offices, whereas with our event they will be able to get advice from different businesses at the same time.
“These services are often things that people procrastinate about so this event will give them the opportunity to tick off several in one visit.”
The event will run from 10am to 3pm, with no booking required—visitors can simply turn up on the day.
Mr O’Connor said the group chose Stricklandgate House as the venue to support the community, as the building provides accommodation and services for voluntary organisations in South Lakeland.
He said: “If people wish to discuss confidential matters, they can exchange contact details with the business concerned and arrange to meet on another day.”
He also suggested that if the event is well received, it could become a regular offering, with future sessions potentially focusing on specific themes.