The jobless rate in the UK has risen a huge amount, to almost two and a half million people. A lot of this is said to be due down to the credit crisis and companies and businesses closing down. Millions of people are now surviving by claiming jobseekers allowance. The huge problem that we are all facing though is that a vast amount of people are up against stiff competition when it comes to applying for a role, whereas three years ago only a selection of people were applying for jobs, now there are masses applying for the same role. Companies and businesses throughout the UK can now be a lot pickier. So what do you do? I mean you have applied for hundreds of jobs yet still no one replies to you.

Personally I believe that the UK is a nation of entrepreneurs, so instead of sitting at home waiting for people to give you a job role, why not take the opportunity to go out and actually start a business for yourself, or do something freelance. I personally think that now during the credit crunch is the best time to do this, so let's take a look at some opportunities you may be able to grab hold of.

Online Business
If you create a successful online business, then you will be able to enjoy a great bout of financial freedom. Another benefit that you can get from an online business is that you will have minimal start up costs, because you will need no over heads and you can outsource the staff to a more affordable country.

Offline Business
If you head into your local town centre you will come across a wide range of shops that have shut down. The shop owners are probably now looking to off load these or rent them cheaply. So what you will be able to do is grab yourself a long term contract bargain. Think about the business you are going to open and look at the area that you are going to open it in. Catering is always a good business to open, if you offer quality food people always want to eat.

Freelance
If you have a set skill such as a developer or photographer why not try going freelance? You will earn much more money than you would working in a full time role and you will have a lot more time on your hands, as well as building up your client list.