Plan an exit strategy

Collaboration launched to help SMEs in post-Brexit era

A THREE-way collaboration has been launched between the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Thames Valley Berkshire Business Growth Hub to support SMEs across Berkshire now that the UK has left the EU.

Running until the end of March, this new initiative is designed to help SMEs in Berkshire understand and adjust to the changes that came in on January 1.

SMEs can access free one-to-one advice on EU Exit with experienced advisers from the Growth Hub and the chamber of commerce, with guidance available via each partners’ website.

In addition, a robust social media campaign is being launched to encourage those needing support to engage with the initiative.

Businesses will also be able to access a dedicated advice line at the chamber of commerce (01753 870 600 or tradeberks@tvchamber.co.uk) for an initial consultation with an expert adviser, resulting in a tailored action plan being developed, that can include market-entry strategies, establishing upskilling requirements and ensuring each organisation has a detailed and flexible approach in place.

Chamber head of international trade and compliance Anne White said: “Over the last 18 months we have run a series of high-level and comprehensive webinars on Brexit, what action should be taken and who businesses should be speaking to ensure they are prepared. As part of this new initiative, the chamber will be delivering a number of free specialist trade facilitation webinars over the next 12 weeks, including an export documentation update to support SMEs.”

Berkshire Growth Hub manager Peter Fleming said: “By bringing together our expertise, we can ensure Berkshire businesses have fast and easy access to the enhanced support they need to adjust to the new rules. Whatever challenges a business is facing, our teams are here to help.”

Thames Valley Berkshire LEP chief executive Alison Webster added: “This period is a hugely testing time for businesses and putting in place useful, local support has been crucial at a time when businesses have already faced a huge number of changes and challenges due to Covid-19 and Brexit.”

Businesses can find out more on the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce website at www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk or the Berkshire Growth Hub website at www. berkshirebusinesshub.co.uk