Business support and advice

A range of support initiatives is available for businesses during these recession times.  Regarding business finance, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform unveiled a package of measures designed to address the cash flow, credit and investment needs of small and medium sized enterprises.

Regionally, the South West Regional Development Agency is offering enhanced business support initiatives, including a new loan fund for South West Businesses, through Business Link.

Business Link also provides information, advice and support needed to start, maintain and grow a business. As well as providing impartial feedback and guidance, advisers can indicate suitable sources of help throughout the public, private and voluntary sectors on many issues. It also runs regular events and information workshops on a range of topical business themes.
 
Jobcentre Plus offers support for businesses regarding staff recruitment and redundancies.

Swine Flu - Important message on preparing your business

Local authorities have a legal duty the  under the Civil Contingencies Act to "Warn & Inform" the public and to "promote Business Continuity". We want to ensure that your business is properly prepared for any emergency.

Swine Flu

Companies should have Business Continuity Plans prepared to enable them to withstand the impact of any emergency. You will be aware from media reports of Swine flu that is being transmitted around the world. Your Business Continuity plans should take account the impact of any infectious disease outbreak.

If your  company has not considered the implications use the following web links to ensure you prepare your company now.

Information to help your business prepare can be found from:

Business Link
www.businesslink.gov.uk/swineflu

UK Resilience
http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/ukresilience/pandemicflu/guidance/business.aspx