Business feedback on impact of coronavirus shapes council programmes
October 29, 2020
During lockdown Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council set up a number of measures to support local businesses. One of these was an online survey to hear how they were operating during the pandemic and their future plans.
Over 200 businesses responded from across a number of sectors including manufacturing, retail, tourism & hospitality, professional services and construction. The health & safety of staff and customers was paramount to everyone.
Alderman Jim Dillon MBE, Development Committee Chairman, speaking about the survey said: “We would like to thank our local businesses for taking the time to complete this survey. COVID-19 has had a severe impact on our lives personally and professionally. The pandemic has impacted the Northern Ireland economy; and the information provided through the survey has helped the council to understand the key concerns of our local business community.
“The results highlighted the current and future concerns of our businesses: financial security, accessing existing and new customers and health and safety concerns being at the forefront for many. To support the growth of our businesses we developed two programmes. The Mentor Growth programme offers up to 30 hours support to help local businesses achieve growth and compete in a changing marketplace. Since the survey closed we have allocated 1,555 hours to Lisburn Castlereagh businesses.
“The Digi-Growth programme is a new support channel to help local businesses move online, which is a necessity at this time of restrictions. It provides businesses with vital assistance to move their business online and advice on e-commerce, social media and using video technology. The programme has allocated 768 hours of mentoring since the summer. I would encourage our local businesses to avail of the support we have on offer. The council will continue to lobby the NI Executive for financial assistance for businesses and encourage shoppers to stay local.”
In terms of regular communication since the survey closed our Business Solutions team has issued over 45 e-zines and responded to 580 queries received through our business helpline. The summary survey report and key data can be viewed online at www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/businesssurvey
Councillor Uel Mackin, Vice-Chair of the Development Committee added: “The council’s Business Recovery & Resilience Package has programmes that have been designed to stimulate, support and grow the Lisburn Castlereagh economy. During the pandemic our programmes have helped local businesses to diversify, adapt delivery methods and develop new products.
“Please sign up to our business newsletter online at www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/business to keep up to date on our future plans to support our business sectors. You can also phone our business helpline for advice and direction during the working week on 07715 269688.”