No they are quite different. The Charities Commission
are a regulatory
body. They will tell you what regulations you must comply with and how
to do so.
They do also serve in an advisory role, which is what we've been using
them for so far.
Business Link are about actually setting up and
running a business
(including not for profits). They are about making connections between
you and others you need to connect with. They don't actually *do*
anything, they try and make sure you are equipped to do what you need.
Most importantly for this thread they know about all funding
opportunities for start-ups in each region. Often these funds are geared
towards one off fees to make sure everything is done right.
Last time I engaged with them I ended up with £7k to pay all fees for a
Social Enterprise Company. They didn't get it for me, I did that, but
they helped enormously.
It certainly sounds like it's worth contacting them. I'll take a more
detailed look at their website and go from there - thank you.