Names
Choosing a name is an important stage in establishing your provision. The choices are endless but whether you are setting up as a company or a voluntary organisation there are rules and laws governing your choice of name.
The simplest name to trade under is your own name and in the majority of cases this presents no problems. If you are setting up as a company under any other name you will need to select a name that is not already in use. Companies House regulate business names and publish a series of guidance booklets. Contact them on 0870 33 33 636 or at www.companieshouse.gov.uk You can search their website to see if your name is already in use and find out what name restrictions there are in England.
If you are setting up as a charity similar rules apply but the governing body is the The Charity Commission. Contact them on 0870 333 0123 or at www.charitycommission.gov.uk
Again they might ask you to change or amend your name if it already exists. If you are not a charity or a company there are no restrictions to your choice. However, names can be overused. For example there are currently nearly 100 registered charities and companies using Busy Bees in their name. It's easy to see why this is a popular choice but there probably isn't room for any more! Also avoid names that are copyrighted or used as trademarks, for example Mickey Mouse or Winnie the Pooh. Contact the Patent Office for advice on 0845 9500 505 or www.patent.gov.uk
Dorset Children’s Information Service holds lists of all registered providers in Dorset so you can ask them to search for a particular name to make sure you are going to be unique and to avoid being confused with another setting of the same name. Contact them on 0845 355 2099.
Once you understand the guidelines how do you choose a good name? Think about your customers - what will appeal to them? You can base it on:
- Your location - village or street
- The local school, leisure centre or community group if you are associated with one
- Something you think makes you unique or describes your service
Some examples:
Blue Bus Special Needs Creche gives you several important pieces of information
Evershot Under 5s tells you immediately that the group specialises in under 5s
Turning Point Creche
Phoenix Out-of-School Club
White Rabbit Pre-School
Sherborne Seedlings is a lovely name but this could be anything from a two hour a week parent and toddler group to a full day nursery. Consider the pros and cons of each option and then make your choice.