Check, Change and Go with free Growth Hub advice on post-transition business

Growth Hubs across the West Midlands are working together to encourage businesses to access free advice to Check, Change and Go following the end of the transition period and the UK’s exit from the EU.

A new website has been launched to provide impartial information to help businesses stay informed about the changes that affect them and take advantage of new opportunities arising from the new rules which came into force from January 1.

Growth Hubs in Coventry and Warwickshire, Greater Birmingham and Solihull, the Black Country, Worcestershire Business Central, Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and Marches have joined forces to help businesses throughout the region understand the key areas of change and the challenges arising from the UK’s new trading status.

The website at www.wmgrowthhubs-eusupport.co.uk provides information on the local and national business support that is available for SMEs to find the help they need.

There is also information on events and workshops that are to be held to guide businesses through the maze of changes and maximise the new opportunities including Going for Global Growth on Tuesday, January 26, which will bring together a panel of international trade experts to offer advice and answer questions.

The online event is being run from 2pm-3.30pm by The Export Academy from the Department for International Trade in collaboration with the West Midlands Growth Hubs and the West Midlands Chambers of Commerce.

There is also the opportunity to complete an EU Transition Support Questionnaire to request specialist support needed by your business.

Alun Rogers, Chairman of Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, said

It’s important that businesses in our area keep up to date with the change in trade rules and stay abreast of continually emerging information.

By staying aware as the UK moves forward and making the necessary amends, businesses have a real opportunity which could enhance their long-term success plans.

We recognise that these are unprecedented times and are committed to supporting businesses across the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire LEP area through Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Growth Hub, their partners in the Department for International Trade West Midlands and the West Midlands Growth Hub Cluster.

West Midlands Growth Hubs are collaborating to combine resources and information on one website, so that businesses have constant access to practical support in an easy-to-navigate place and can understand the changes which the new rules will bring about.

The Growth Hubs have appointed sector specialists in a wide range of industries from automotive to transport and logistics, to employment law and importing and exporting.

Alongside Growth Hub managers, I also hope that this new resource will be a valuable support to businesses in our region, alongside the current fully-funded advice which is available.”

Nicola Kent, Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Growth Hub Manager said:

We are delighted to have this new resource in one place, which should be a big help to the business community. Growth Hubs have long been a focal point for business support and this latest addition adds the next level to advising businesses on the latest trade changes after the EU Exit.

Businesses who would like guidance on any area of their organisation can call the Staffordshire Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 and our team of Accredited Advisors will be on hand to support.”