If you’re looking to relocate to a different city, there’s plenty of assistance out there.

Many cities are making particular efforts to attract businesses and have dedicated schemes that will help you locate suitable property and assist you in the move.

Leeds City Council operates a scheme – www.no-ordinary-city.co.uk – providing free oneon- one consultation, an extensive property database and acts as a support network for companies moving to the city.

Support from such schemes, and the individuals within them, can be a valuable resource, particularly relevant if you operate within a specific sector or will be looking to source local suppliers and services.

Anne Morgan, business development manager for Leeds City Council, says: “Companies often need detailed information on issues such as the economy, workforce, transport links and quality of life issues such as house prices, schools, sporting and cultural facilities. We can provide them with a single point of contact.”

Some cities also offer incentives to relocate or qualify for certain EU or government grants and schemes. For England, the best place to start is to contact the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) – www.englandsrdas.com. All RDAs work closely with councils and will be able to tell you which programmes and assistance schemes are available. For the rest of the UK, contact local councils.