Having been set up on an informal basis as a weekly meet up at a bar in the town, it has grown over the past nine months to a serious venture offering around 30 people the chance to share working space at offices in High Street, Worthing. Taking its inspiration from an American model of conducting business on more sociable terms, it is a concept which is now becoming popular around the world. That is especially the case with business rates and rents being prohibitively high for many small firms, entrepreneurs and freelancers. As a result, Worthing Coworking the group has seen significant interest from people who would rather not work at home alone, or simply can’t afford an office and all their associated costs. Founder member of the group, James Bradshaw, from Worthing, explained, it has so far attracted people from a diverse range of backgrounds including web developers, writers, pr specialists and designers. He pointed to research showing that more than three-quarters of those who opt for co-working found their productivity and networking abilities improved. “The beauty of co-working is that it offers people somewhere to come and work productively, for a low, fixed cost, without having the expense of leasing an office themselves and all the worry and responsibility that comes with it,” revealed James. He added: “You just need a laptop, and to show up. WiFi, utility bills and other expenses are all taken care of. Make yourself a cuppa, find a seat and get on with your work. “Another great advantage of co-working is you’re not tied into a contract either. Pay for however many days you want to come in each month, from one day upwards, and there will be a desk there for you on whatever day you choose to come in. “Co-working also serves the community and fosters ever-evolving working relationships. It gets us out of our home offices and into a space where we can get work done, collaborate with others, make contacts, pass on skills and knowledge and gives us a place to ‘park’ our work life.” Fellow group founder, David Andrew, a web designer from Worthing, added: “It’s been positive so far, my productivity has increased working here and there’s a real sense of camaraderie.” Anyone who would like more information should visit the website www.worthing coworking.co.uk