A charity which helped a jewellery designer set up her own business after overcoming serious illness and unemployment is hoping others will be inspired by her story.

Julie McAlpin was left concerned as to how she could earn a living after becoming ill and having to put her singing career on hold. Struggling to find a job in the recession, she started thinking that becoming self-employed would be the best way for her to earn some money.

The 32-year-old began making jewellery to keep her active while recovering from her illness and has managed to turn it into a business thanks to support and funding from The Prince’s Trust.

Ms McAlpin, from Croydon, said: "The programme has given my jewellery business the boost I needed and I’ve actually had music producers interested in me because of the success of the business.

"People in the industry are now wearing my jewellery and it’s my aim to continue singing and to link the two up."

The Prince’s Trust and the Royal Bank of Scotland are now launching a campaign to back more entrepreneurs like Ms McAlpin.

Dermot Finch, South of England regional director for the Prince’s Trust, said: "Young people can achieve amazing things with the right support - but all too often they have never had anyone to believe in them and crucially, lack self-confidence.

"We have helped more than 80 entrepreneurs get their ideas off the ground in Croydon over the last year - such as beauticians, barbers, dog groomers and digital agencies - and we want to help more young people become their own boss.

"The Prince’s Trust can help with free intensive support, low interest loans and business mentors to support young people at every step of the way."

Unemployed youngsters are encouraged to submit business ideas at princes-trust.org.uk/ideas and on Twitter using the #MyBigIdea hashtag.