Dorset Gateway’s core service will help businesses in post-pandemic Dorset
Coronavirus Business Support
As a frontline support organisation for businesses in Dorset, Dorset Gateway has received a record amount of calls and enquiries regarding COVID-19 in recent weeks. In this capacity, Dorset Gateway, which is delivered by Dorset LEP in partnership with Dorset Chamber, has been providing businesses, charities and self-employed persons a ‘go-to’ for information on all areas of the Government’s support package. By keeping abreast of all Government updates and policy changes, Dorset Gateway has been able to provide key information in response to specific enquiries. It also proactively distils and disseminates key information through social media channels in real-time, with wider updates provided through Dorset LEP’s and Dorset Chamber’s fortnightly e-newsletters.
Dorset Gateway is urging all organisations and self-employed persons across the county, regardless of the nature of their business, to complete Dorset LEP’s Business Impact Survey at https://www.dorsetlep.co.uk/covid19-business-impact-survey. The results will be used to inform central government of the specific support needs in Dorset and identify further measures that are required locally to support businesses during and after the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Future
As an established resource, Dorset Gateway is well-placed to help organisations as they look to the future. Suzannah Kennedy, Dorset Gateway Business Advisor explains: “While our recent activity has been focused on helping organisation understand the eligibility criteria and where to access government support during the Coronavirus pandemic, we are very mindful of the support they will need to get back on track as soon as they can.
“Our core service has always been to provide an informed and bespoke service; and we are already identifying and working with key individuals and organisations locally and nationally who could make a crucial difference at this time. We know that navigating all the options of support while running a business can be time consuming; it is our role to do that for you. All we need is an understanding of your needs and we will identify the help and any financial support available.”
As a centralised resource, Dorset Gateway is able to assess the needs of a business and tailor its recommendations based on its educated understanding of the support available, from business support initiatives offered by organisations such as Dorset Growth Hub, OutSet, Dorset Business Mentors and Empiric Partners, as well as sector-specific support such as that offered for the creative industry by the Arts Development Company or for manufacturers by the South West Manufacturing Advice Service.
Organisations seeking help during the pandemic or afterwards can contact the Dorset Gateway Business Advisors, based at Dorset Chamber, at Gateway@dcci.co.uk or on 01202 741800.