Pandemic support for businesses sees Waverley shortlisted in national awards

Waverley Borough Council has been shortlisted for an award for its support to local businesses by The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The council provided considerable resources and expertise to businesses during the height of the pandemic and continues to do so as they recover from its wider impact.

Councillor Liz Townsend, Waverley Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, says: “To have this endorsement from the Federation of Small Businesses is wonderful. Small businesses are the backbone of Waverley’s economy, and we were determined to do all we could to support them during and after lockdowns. The FSB clearly thought our approach was the right one and we proudly continue to support small and medium sized business in our community.”

This is the first time the FSB has run an all-England award for local councils and the competition was extremely tough. Waverley was among a handful to be shortlisted from the 400 entries from 250 councils. 

“Our response to help businesses survive the pandemic began with swift payment of government and local financial support, processing of grants, and effective signposting to assist them in operating and in supporting their staff. We promoted high streets and other local businesses too, continuing to bolster them as the pandemic began to ease. Work continues to help build a robust business community through networking opportunities, training and mentoring as well as bringing more investment and footfall into the area, all helping to put Waverley on the map,” says Councillor Townsend.

Waverley has a dedicated economic development team to support local businesses which provides specialist expertise, training and individual support for new and established independent businesses alongside work to attract investment into the borough. Businesses can find out about Waverley’s support at www.businesswaverley.co.uk.