WELCOME FROM THE CEO

The Word on the Ground

After weeks of lockdown there are some really concerning messages coming from the business community. We have focused most of our time on speaking to businesses about their experiences with the impact of coronavirus so that we can truly represent them to government.

Alongside these calls we have been running a survey which attracted 301 responses from all sizes, sectors and locations across Surrey. The results were quite stark showing 72% of organisations either laying off staff or using the furloughing scheme. 63% said they were at risk of closure within 3-6 months. The results of our first survey have helped us to inform government just how tough things are and has contributed to some of the measures which have been put in place.

For a summary of the first survey, go to https://www. gov.uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder

Obviously within that period of time a number of business support mechanisms have come into play so our second survey will be measuring the effectiveness of these schemes. To take the second survey, go to https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ SCCCOV19V2.

Grants from Councils

Following the delivery of grant funding to the Boroughs and Districts, they have been busily distributing it to their businesses. If a business believes they should be getting a grant and haven’t received it yet they should go to the appropriate page on their council’s website to find out what to do.

These are listed on our website at https:// www.surrey-chambers.co.uk/representation/ how-is-your-business-doing/#section3 to try and make it as easy as possible for people to get money into their businesses.

Falling through the cracks?

I am sad to say that I am still receiving many calls from businesses, which are falling between the schemes and are therefore fearful for their survival. These include start-ups, which have only been operational for less than a year, Directors who are paid in dividends, and businesses in serviced offices who pay rates within their rent but are not registered as rate payers, and therefore are exempt from grants.

These stories, as well as experiences of those trying to access loans, are being shared with the govern-

ment to try and secure further support. We also continue to work closely with Enterprise M3 and Coast to Capital Growth Hubs, Business South and the Local Authorities to identify additional support for our local economy. Continuing to hear individual stories is really powerful. We are happy to hear from anyone with feedback. Call us on 01483 735540.

Good news stories

We continue to pick up the great work being done locally supporting the NHS, including the SurreyDrive initiative to feed NHS workers, as they finish long arduous shifts and our local entertainment businesses coming up with novel ways to keep us amused. Check out Guildford Fringe and Guildford Shakespeare Company for some entertainment.

We have also been running a series of webinars via Zoom, giving people the opportunity to ask questions of specialist panels and although there are too many to mention, I wanted to thank the members who have given us so generously their time and expertise! The camaraderie within Chambers has never been so evident.

I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to the team at Surrey Chambers, who have adjusted to our new way of working in such a brilliant way. Their passion to help as many businesses as possible has been a pleasure to see and I believe we will come through this with even more insight into what businesses need from us so that we can support them.

It is recommended that ALL businesses use the official Business Support Finder from the UK government which can be found at https://www.gov. uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder

On behalf of the team, board and council of Surrey Chambers of Commerce, we wish you and your company the best possible outcome at this difficult time and hope that you and your families are staying healthy.

Very best wishes Louise and the team

CEO Surrey Chamber of Commerce Louise Punter

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Life is like a sewer – what you get out of it depends on what you put into it

BUSINESS WISDOM

Partner Appointment

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