Help is at hand for local businesses during coronavirus crisis

Throughout the outbreak the Council has been supporting local businesses in a variety of ways.

Funding where it is needed

We have supported thousands of local small businesses throughout the crisis, enabling them to benefit from business rate grant funds.

The grants were made available by the Government in response to the crisis but the application process and distribution of funds was managed by the Council.

Eligible small businesses in the Horsham District have received funds totalling some £25.9 million.

Other sources of support

Please check out the links below to further  sources of business support which are also available on the Horsham District Council coronavirus and business support pages:

• Horsham District Council: Coronavirus
• Business support and information
• Business Rates
• Start or grow your business

Trading support for businesses

Throughout the pandemic the Council has adhered to government guidance and restrictions regarding the opening of and access to local retail outlets and businesses and will continue to support its local businesses based on this advice.

Our current focus is on supporting our businesses and enabling them to adapt to the changing economic environment.

We are running ongoing fortnightly surveys with local businesses to monitor impact and trends and provide appropriate support as needed.

How to trade differently

We have supported many traders in switching their distribution methods to online sales solutions such as takeaways, with click and collect and home delivery services.

We will continue to support the operation and development of www.essentialhorsham.online operated by Visit Horsham as a reliable online directory showcasing which businesses are open for trade, whether online or offline.

We are also introducing weekly interactive online business support sessions that will cover a range of topics, hosted by local business specialists. Topics planned include:

• Effective use of video and social media in the current environment
• Simple online order processing and payment options, and
• Re-opening your business safely.