This past fortnight has been unprecedented in our modern history. The stresses and strains for all businesses have been considerable but we remain committed and resilient to ensure those businesses needing support are signposted to the right location.
I hope you find this newsletter helpful in bringing together the latest news and essential sources of support in one place.
The Chamber is currently supporting members through this immediate phase of crisis where the priority is about maintaining cashflow to ensure business survival through these coming weeks.
As we move forward, we will be playing our part in the economy recovery process on behalf of, in conjunction with, our member businesses.
Collecting your stories, case studies and issues has been at the forefront of our activities. We am sharing (anonymously) insight where it is appropriate with our national Chambers of Commerce and our local authorities.
As the government’s support schemes (listed below) are rolled out, we want to understand your individual experience of accessing funds, support and resources. We’ll take any information or experience you want to share with us to the relevant place but this week we are looking particularly at:
• Have you – if eligible – been able to access the support grants available?
• Have you applied for an Interruption loan and did you get a positive response?
• Have you a clear understanding of your workforce plans relating to furloughing?
• Are there any specific problems or gaps in the funding packages announced?
We know it’s really tough at the moment. The Chamber is here to support in any way we can and to work in partnership with the other business associations in the city to maximise the collective support our businesses can access.