Perth Ranks

First in Scotland for Female-Led Businesses

Despite the challenging current climate for new companies, the number of women starting businesses in the UK is at an all-time high (Source: Rose Review Progress Report, 2022.)

As part of its diversity in business statistics report, the business finance team at money.co.uk analysed which of the UK’s local authorities offered the best opportunities for female entrepreneurs. Several factors were considered, including the number of self-employed women in the area, the median pay gap and the unemployment score.

With a final score of 8.17 out of 10, Perth and Kinross was ranked first in Scotland and fifth in the UK.

The area scored highest in unemployment (8.63/10) and pay gap (8.58/10), as well as rating third overall in self-employment (7.29/10). Unemployment and pay gap categories with high scores mean less unemployment/pay gap.

In summarising the findings, James Andrews, senior personal finance expert, commented, “It has been a difficult few years for entrepreneurship in the UK, with the pandemic and cost of living crisis. That can be made worse for women, with challenges beyond the economy holding you back. This is most apparent in the North of England, where women face higher barriers than elsewhere in the UK.”

Willowgate: A Centre for Excellence in the UK

Since its inception in 2017, Willowgate Activity Centre has strived to become recognised as a Centre for Excellence within the outdoors industry. By investing in its people and high standards of customer care, it is now the largest instructor training provider in Tayside and one of the largest in the wider UK.

Willowgate has recently been awarded with the “Every Person Matters” mantle, having been recognised by British Canoeing for their contribution to the industry.

Adam Burns, Centre Manager, commented, “Alongside our promise to deliver a wide range of quality, outdoor activities for local people and visitors, we have worked hard towards building a reputation as the first-choice destination in Scotland for new instructors and coaches.

“I’m pleased to say that the hard work is paying off! We are now accredited by the Scottish Canoe Association and British Canoeing, allowing us to deliver specialist instructor, leader, and coaching awards. As a result of this, we are one of only a handful of centres offering these courses and regularly attract coaches from across the UK.”

This higher profile offer has been a key component in Willowgate’s growth, and also generates economic impact at a local level as groups book, eat and visit Perth while attending their multi-day courses. Crucially, the demand for the enhanced offering generally comes over the winter period as those working in the industry seek to develop their knowledge and qualifications off season.

For more information, visit www. willowgateactivitycentre.co.uk.