A SHORTAGE of entrepreneurs in Southampton is preventing a healthcare employment agency from creating more than 150 jobs for the region.

Abacus Care would create the jobs for both full- and part-time healthcare staff with hospital, residential and care homes in Southampton and the surrounding area, but it cannot find a local manager to run the business.

Managing director Nigel Fielding said: "I'm staggered by an apparent apathy in this area about starting a business. We have more than 25 Abacus Care franchises spanning across the country and we've always been in a fortunate position to have a selection of high calibre people to choose from.

"We currently feel that we've drawn a blank in Southampton. There's a need for the type of service we're offering - nursing homes and hospitals across the region are crying out for more staff."

He said each franchise creates more than 150 jobs for registered general nurses, registered mental nurses and care assistants in its first year.

Mr Fielding added: "Taking a franchise business offers opportunities to build and establish your own company.

"But it's not as daunting as making a start-up work from scratch as each franchise is part of a wider network.

"All of our franchises are offered support and assistance from people who have been in exactly the same position themselves."

Anyone wishing to find out more about setting up a franchise should call Ian McDougall on 01695 585400.