A WORCESTER risk management firm is off to a flying start with a £250,000 cash injection.

Quantum Risk Management has received the money from the Advantage Growth Fund, a £20m equity-based fund providing small and medium-sized firms in the West Midlands with venture capital.

Quantum will provide clients with advice on employment law, human resources policies and health and safety regulations.

It intends to use the money as general working capital to get the business off the ground.

"We will provide peace-of-mind business protection to successful owner-managers who want to be able to concentrate on what they are good at," said Mark Ball who set up the company.

"At the same time, they will ensure that, through our advice and guidance, they comply with all the necessary employment and health and safety legislation."

Currently employing seven people, Mr Ball expects to double his work force in the first year of operation.

The new fund, launched on February 7, is managed by Birmingham-based Midven Ltd, on behalf of fund investors, which include universities, banks and the Department for Trade and Industry (DTI).

Tony Stott, Midven's Investment Director, said Quantum had fulfilled all the funding criteria.

"Mark Ball presented us with a first class business plan for a company which will provide a much needed and highly valuable service," he said.

"He has put a strong team together which we are delighted to back."