Business leaders call for more support to re-open

28th July 2020

Business leaders are calling for more support to help companies re-open from the start of August, following updated guidance issued by the Government.

Employers have been given more discretion to bring employees back to work in the next steps in England’s response to the COVID-19 crisis and Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) national chairman Mike Cherry has called on the government to help small firms with re-opening costs.

Many small businesses have suffered weeks with no income and yet they are tasked with putting measures in place to ensure a safe return to work for their staff. Some may need help with both funding and advice to do so effectively.

British Chambers of Commerce director general Adam Marshall believes that businesses need clear guidance alongside discussions with employees to help them make decisions about how and when to return to work safely.

For many employees returning to the workplace relies on schools and childcare settings re-opening, as well as the availability of public transport services so they may need to continue some element of flexibility and home working.

For advice and guidance on reducing the risks from the Coronavirus for small businesses and the self-employed visit the FSB website. It covers topics such as:

• When can my business re-open?
• Re-opening your business safely
• Working safely during Coronavirus
• Looking after your staff
• What if I can’t re-open yet
• Looking after your physical and mental health.

To keep up to date with Government guidance and the steps that the BCC is taking to minimise the impact of Coronavirus on businesses visit its website. You can also visit our Coronavirus: support for Sandwell businesses page for up-to-date information from credible sources.