The majority of self-employed business owners believe the government is not doing enough to support them, new research suggests.
Despite a plethora of government-backed support services, the study by Panasonic claims 84% of self-employed people feel let down by ministers.
Entrepreneurs also highlighted long hours, missed holidays and financial pressures as the drawbacks of working for themselves but over three-quarters admitted their quality of life has improved since going it alone.
The report said the government should take this as a call to invest more money in supporting the self-employed or at least make entrepreneurs aware of the help that is available.
Government support groups out there include the Small Business Service, Business Link, and the Regional Development Agencies. In addition, the Small Business Council advises the government on pressing SME issues.
Bob Tate from Panasonic said: "It is in everyone's interests to promote entrepreneurialism. For every small business that starts up there's a chance it could be the next big brand.
"With over three-quarters claiming they had to learn new skills to start up, with information technology taking up most of their time, we are hoping to educate the public on the kind of technology and support there is available for start-ups."
Last month, the government announced plans to make it easier to set up a new business. It claims small firms would save £100 million a year under the proposals.
