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Help for local businesses in the economic downturn
The UK is experiencing the longest period of economic downturn for several decades. This has put a strain on local businesses and life looks set to remain tough in the months ahead.
With this in mind, some useful information to help your business during the economic downturn is set out below:
- Is your business in need of urgent advice and attention? Business Link's Rapid Response service is for businesses at risk of failing or for those who have been made redundant and are thinking about starting up their own business. Why not undertake a free business health check through the Business Link support service, helping you to identify problems early on. Take advantage of Business Link's tools and guides to get advice that could help your business.
- Business Link have also created a checklist with the top ten online information and guidance tips you need to keep your businesses finances in shape.
- Bromley Council has made available grant funding to help local businesses pay for specialist advice as the result of a Business Link business review. For more information about booking a business review please contact a Business Link in London adviser.
- There are a number of new government guaranteed financial schemes available to help businesses with temporary cashflow problems. Find out further details here.
- Rising business rates are becoming increasingly problematic to small businesses, yet many are not claiming the rate relief they are entitled to. For more information on business rates please browse the Bromley Business Rates section of the Council website.
- Studies have shown that businesses that invest in skills and training succeed better than those that don’t. Visit the Train to Gain website to see what courses they can offer to improve the knowledge and skills of your employees.
- Tips on maintaining cash flow in a ‘Credit Crunch’ can be found at The Institute of Credit Management; providing financial information and advice on securing finance and limiting problems caused by late or non-payments.
- Why not contact Business Focus for advice and guidance on your business plan.
- If you need loan finance to start or grow your business, and have not been successful in getting all you need from your bank, GLE oneLondon may be able to help you.
- If you're worried about being able to meet tax, National Insurance, VAT or other payments owed to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), or you anticipate that payments coming due will cause you problems, you can contact the Business Payment Support Service.
- Real Help Now: Have you been made redundant within the last 6 months or currently under notice of redundancy? If so, South London Business can offer you FREE support and skills development activities to help prepare you for re-employment or self-employment. For more information Telephone: 020 8666 0221 or Email:realhelpnow@southlondonbusiness.co.uk
Why not sign up to the free Bromley Business E-Bulletin and stay ahead of the competition by finding out the latest business support news.
Contact
Local Economy & Regeneration
Telephone: 020 8461 7897
e-mail: business@bromley.gov.uk
Address: Local Economy & Regeneration Team, A68 Ann Springman, Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, BR1 3UH