Lazarus Mobility boss Stephen Collins to meet Gordon Brown

Jun 16 2009 By Henryk Zientek

A HUDDERSFIELD man who has overcome disability to build up his own business is to meet Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Stephen Collins, who heads Lazarus Mobility providing disability aids online and from a showroom at Aspley, will be a guest at 10 Downing Street.

Stephen, who has cerebral palsy, said the invitation arose from a letter he sent the Prime Minister expressing concerns about the reluctance of banks to extend credit to businesses in general and those run by people like him in particular.

Stephen said: "I explained that given my physical condition I was never expected to work, marry or drive, far less set up my own company.

"Through hard work and determination I have achieved all four and I am extremely proud to now employ four people who otherwise might be having to live off the state.

"In the event, my letter appeared to have hit a chord with the PM because I was eventually advanced credit, my company was able to survive and has now gone from strength to strength."

Stephen added: "As well as thanking the PM for his help, I hope to be able to talk freely with him about how small businesses like mine can help the wider community by providing employment and getting local people off benefits and into work.