After refocusing a core part of its service in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, Dorset Gateway has had a very busy few weeks handling an unprecedented number of calls and emails from businesses across all sectors and sizes in Dorset, as well as self-employed people.
Acting quickly, Dorset LEP invested in additional resource for Dorset Gateway, whilst utilising the existing expertise and resources of the established Dorset Gateway team to help businesses understand the eligibility criteria and processes for accessing the financial support made available by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak.
During this fast-moving situation, Dorset Gateway has already helped many organisations to navigate the vast amount of information coming from government and understand how they can be supported. This includes, but is not limited to directing to business grants, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and the Self-employment Income Support Scheme. There are also initiatives designed to support cash flow such as payment holidays and the Business Interruption Loan Scheme.
Dorset Gateway continues to highlight additional support as soon as it is made available from Government.
Have your Say: please complete Dorset LEP’s Business Impact Survey used to inform Central Government of the true impact of COVID-19 in Dorset.
For support re: COVID-19 please download and complete the Business Support Form here.