Chamber News

Commenting on the decision by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to cut interest rates to 0.1%, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“The decision to cut interest rates to their lowest ever levels and restart quantitative easing reflects an increasingly dire near-term outlook for the UK economy.

“This may give a short-term boost to market confidence, but will have little long-term effect unless it translates to practical support for businesses. It is critical that the Bank of England works with financial institutions to ease cash flow challenges for firms on the ground in this increasingly turbulent period.”

As the overall Corona Virus (COVID-19) situation, escalates, Norfolk Chambers is trying to ensure the International Documentation Team can continue to provide you with a good level of service.  We have put a contingency plan in place, which will minimise disruption, but will involve some changes to working hours and our ability to turn around documents as quickly as we have previously done.

As of Monday 23 March, we will only be processing same day e-zCert ‘standard’ documentation between the hours of 8.30am – 12 Noon.  Any documents received after this time will still be processed, but will be completed by the following day.  All e-zCert ‘express’ documents will be processed between 8.30am and 3pm

Julie Austin, International Trade Manager at Norfolk Chamber said:

“We are advising all customers to use our electronic platform – e-zCert. This will ensure almost all physical interactions between customers and our documentation team are eliminated but that documents can still be obtained quickly and easily.”

Customers can apply for their documents through the system by:

1. Selecting which document you are applying for
2. Filling in each required box with information verifiable from your back-up
3. Uploading appropriate back-up documents to evidence information stated on the form
4. The document is then checked by us to ensure it contains all required information and matches the back-up provided by you
5. If everything is in order the document is then approved by us and returned to you via the system

The ‘Express’ function of our system enables documents to be printed at customers’ premises. Blank forms can be purchased by customers in packs of 10 and the documents are applied for, checked, and approved through e-zCert.

For all customers using the e-zCert system for the first time we offer a free checking service to ensure they are confident when using it for documentation. If you would like to move across to the new system we highly recommend registering and familiarising yourself with it prior to any escalation of the COVID-19 situation.

You can find up-to-date advice from the Government here, advice from ACAS here, and resources from Public Health England to display at your workplace here.

If you have any questions about the e-zCert system or our international documentation services please get in touch with Julie Austin, International Trade Manager on 01603 729706 or at [email protected]

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak presents a significant challenge to businesses around the globe. Norfolk businesses who have been affected, or feel they are likely to be affected by Coronavirus, are urged to seek advice and the Government has supplied a series of resources to inform employers on the latest developments and advice on protecting themselves and their employees.  The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak outlined yesterday afternoon, the Government’s £330bn package of support for businesses.

 Below the key points from yesterday’s government briefing:

• Keen to boost science and research and get trials going and search for vaccine
• Will do ‘what it takes’ to support the economy
• Will support millions of businesses, jobs and incomes and will respond with urgency

1.  The government will stand behind small and large businesses – package of Government loans, £330bn of guarantees equivalent to 15% GDP.  Any business who needs access to cash, rent, supplies etc, available on Government credit.  If demand is higher, they will look to increase capacity.  Support delivered through 2 schemes (BOE lending facility, low-cost commercial paper) and (Business Loan Scheme rather than £1.2 million now up to £5m with no interest due for 6 months) – both available from next week.

Potential support package for airlines and airports – the government will look to help most affected sectors.

2.  For those in leisure, pubs, etc. – cash grants of £25,000 for particular businesses. Business rates holiday for all those in sectors (irresponsive of rateable value).  Cash grants increasing from £3k to £10k.

3.  Mortgage lenders offering 3 month mortgage holiday.  The government to work with other parties to help protect jobs and incomes.

For more information on the government support for businesses – please click here to access the government COVID019 Hub.

Commenting on the package of support, Nova Fairbank, Head of Policy for Norfolk Chambers said:

“Whilst the announced measures are on an impressive scale, we feel this is not immediate enough for most businesses.  Rishi Sunak’s announcements certainly involve big numbers in order to boost business confidence and support over the medium-term through loan guarantees.   “However, Norfolk Chambers’ members and the wider business community, especially in the most vulnerable sectors such as hospitality and logistics, need significant help with their cashflow now to pay their staff and keep trading.   “This means the government must implement a moratorium, of at least three months, on those taxes which will eat away at companies’ margins: business rates, commercial rents, NI employer contributions and VAT.  This would deliver an enormous boost to thousands of businesses. And unlike the administration of loan guarantees, this approach would benefit the business community positively much sooner.”

For more information on the government support for businesses – please click here to access the Government COVID-19 Hub.

The latest advice from Public Health England is that:

•  If you or anyone in your home has a high temperature or a new and continuous cough, then you should stay at home for 14 days.
• Everybody should avoid all unnecessary social contact with others and all unnecessary travel.
• Everybody should start working from home if they possibly can.
• Everybody should avoid pubs, clubs, cinemas and restaurants.

Norfolk Chambers are here to help and support:

Norfolk Chambers team will remain available to you and continues to connect, support and give voice to every business in Norfolk. 

• Business Support: Norfolk Chambers’ membership gives businesses access to free HR, legal, tax and health & safety advice – much of which may be useful to you during the current COVID-19 situation. The Norfolk Chambers’ team is on hand to help you get the maximum benefits from your Chamber membership.  For more information: [email protected] or we have a live-chat facility on our website during working hours.
• Events: In view of the latest advice, we have taken the decision to postpone all events/training courses until the end of April 2020.  We will reconsider our position on events at this point.  In the meantime, if you are booked onto an event during this period, we will be in touch to advise you about your booking.  For any queries relating to our events, please contact [email protected] or 01603 625977
• Export documentation: This expert service continues to operate, but please note there may be a slight delay on the speed of service.  We would encourage you to consider using the electronic e-zCert system to process your documentation wherever possible.  We have also put contingency plans in place to ensure continuous service.   For any queries relating to this please contact: [email protected] or call 01603 625977 and we will arrange a call back.
• Communications: All of our communications channels remain open to support members boost their customer reach and access support. For further information on using Norfolk Chamber’s website and accessing our social media platforms: [email protected] or 01603 625977
• Campaigning and policy: Norfolk Chambers continues to lobby hard on your company’s behalf. We very much welcome any feedback that you may have on how Covid-19 is impacting on your business and also suggestions of what the Government could do to help you to navigate this difficult period.  Please contact Nova Fairbank on email: [email protected] or Tel: 01603 729713.

As you are aware, the response to Coronavirus/COVID-19 means that the advice to business is likely to change.  We will ensure that Norfolk Chambers keeps you updated as the situation changes.  The latest advice from Government on what businesses need to do and the support available to them can be found here.

Responding to the package of government announcements to help businesses affected by Coronavirus, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said:  

 “Businesses will welcome the scale of the Government’s latest response, as well as the specific support it is offering to some of the worst-affected parts of our economy. These measures could be a lifeline for many businesses across the UK who are now experiencing wholesale disruption as a result of the pandemic. 

 “The key to the success of these measures is whether they get cash to businesses on the front line, fast. Companies need practical details, at great speed, for these interventions to have the desired impact, and to reassure firms across the UK.   

 “Both the Prime Minister and the Chancellor were clear that the Government would do whatever it takes over the coming days to support businesses, their employees, and the economy. Further measures will be needed to help all firms and their employees meet this unprecedented challenge.” 

We are aware that the impact of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 virus is likely to be a cause of serious concern to you, from both a business and a personal perspective.  

The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson held his first live COVID-19 Update on Monday afternoon and has said the following:

Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel,” the prime minister says.

• Anyone who lives with someone who has a cough or a temperature should stay at home for 14 days
• People should start working from home where they possible can
• Avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues
• Only use the NHS when we really need to

We wanted to reassure you that Norfolk Chambers is here to support you and your business; to help keep you up to date with the latest information; and to signpost you to a range of business solutions.

We are also waiting to hear from the Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as to what other measures he is proposing to put in place to support the business community during this challenging time.

Norfolk Chambers team will remain available to you and continues to connect, support and give voice to every business in Norfolk. 

However, we will be operating with a small team at the office for as long as we are able and the balance of our staff, including any ‘at risk’ team members will be working from home.  This will mean that some of our services will be change slightly, but please be assured of our continued support for you and your business.

In particular, I wanted to update you as to how each part of our ‘offer’ is working to assist you, whilst operating in accordance with the latest Government requirements:

• Business Support: Norfolk Chambers’ membership gives businesses access to free HR, legal, tax and health & safety advice – much of which may be useful to you during the current COVID-19 situation. The Norfolk Chambers’ team is on hand to help you get the maximum benefits from your Chamber membership.  For more information: [email protected] or we have a live-chat facility on our website during working hours.

• Events: In view of the latest advice, we have taken the decision to postpone all events/training courses until the end of April 2020.  We will reconsider our position on events at this point.  In the meantime, if you are booked onto an event during this period, we will be in touch to advise you about your booking.  For any queries relating to our events, please contact [email protected] or 01603 625977  
• Export documentation: This expert service continues to operate, but please note there may be a slight delay on the speed of service.  We would encourage you to consider using the electronic e-zCert system to process your documentation wherever possible.  We have also put contingency plans in place to ensure continuous service.   For any queries relating to this please contact: [email protected] or call 01603 625977 and we will arrange a call back.  
• Communications: All of our communications channels remain open to support members boost their customer reach and access support. For further information on using Norfolk Chamber’s website and accessing our social media platforms: [email protected] or 01603 625977  
• Campaigning and policy: Norfolk Chambers continues to lobby hard on your company’s behalf. We very much welcome any feedback that you may have on how Covid-19 is impacting on your business and also suggestions of what the Government could do to help you to navigate this difficult period.  Please contact Nova Fairbank on email: [email protected] or Tel: 01603 729713.

As you are aware, the response to Coronavirus/COVID-19 means that the advice to business is likely to change.  We will ensure that Norfolk Chambers keeps you updated as the situation changes.  The latest advice from Government on what businesses need to do and the support available to them can be found here.

Assuring you of our continued support.

Chris Sargisson

Chief Executive

We are aware that the impact of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 virus is likely to be a cause of concern to you, from both a business and a personal perspective.   

The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has just held his first live COVID-19 Update and has said the following:

Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel,” the prime minister says.

• Anyone who lives with someone who has a cough or a temperature should stay at home for 14 days
• People should start working from home where they possible can
• Avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues
• Only use the NHS when we really need to

We wanted to reassure you that Norfolk Chambers is here to support you and your business; to help keep you up to date with the latest information; and to signpost you to a range of business solutions.   Norfolk Chambers team will remain available to you and continues to connect, support and give voice to every business in Norfolk, however, we are now reviewing all our policies in view of this latest announcement and will update you further, once a course of action is set.

All businesses will be aware that the impact of Corona Virus (COVID-19) is escalating and as such, the business community needs to respond in the appropriate way, especially in view of the Prime Ministers recent update on Monday evening, advising those who can work from home to do so and to wherever possible avoid social interaction.

Last week Norfolk Chambers published advice outlining our contingency plans for ensuring the continuation of our International Trade documentation which have now been implemented.  There was also some practical advice on the areas your business needs to consider when dealing with the current situation.  Below is an update on the latest advice from central government, together with some of the support already available for businesses.

Employees diagnosed with coronavirus:

Stay at home guidance. The guidance for people with confirmed or possible coronavirus infection has been updated. If a person has symptoms of coronavirus infection however mild, the person should not leave home for 14 days from when the symptoms started.

After 14 days, if the person feels better and no longer has a high temperature, the person can return to their normal routine. If the person has not had any signs of improvement and have not already sought medical advice, the person should contact NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk or call NHS 111.

Cough may persist for several weeks in some people, despite the coronavirus infection having cleared. A persistent cough alone does not mean the person must continue to self-isolate for more than 7 days. Find the updated guidance here.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Government Business Advice & Helpline:

For individual businesses, the good port of call for advice and support is gov.uk. However, they are also scaling up their Business Support Helpline so businesses of all sizes, can pick up the phone and speak directly to an advisor. The number to call is: 0300 456 3565

Tax Helpline:

HMRC have launched a tax helpline to help businesses concerned about paying their tax due to coronavirus (COVID-19). Find all the information here. The number is 0800 0159 559.

Companies House: Filing your Accounts

Companies House has produced guidance if coronavirus (COVID-19) has affected your company and you need more time to file your accounts. Find all the information here.

Online resources for businesses and employers

For the latest information and advice, employers and business owners should visit guidance for employees, employers and businesses. Check the page regularly for updates and subscribe to receive email alerts.   

Information includes: 

• Guidance on advice to provide to staff including: how to help prevent spread of COVID-19; what to do if someone suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19 has been in a workplace setting; advice to give to individuals who have travelled to specific areas; and advice for the certification of absence from work resulting from COVID19 
• Information on the support available to businesses impacted by COVID-19
• ACAS has published information for employees and employers, including information on simple steps to help protect the health and safety of staff, sick pay and absence from work 

Business Support announced in the Budget

The recent Budget announced a package of measures to provide support for public services, individuals and businesses affected by Covid-19. 

A new Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, delivered by the British Business Bank, will enable businesses with a turnover of no more than £41m to apply for a loan of up to £1.2m, with the Government covering up to 80% of any losses with no fees. This will unlock up to £1 billion pounds to protect and support small businesses.  

For businesses with fewer than 250 employees, the cost of providing 14 days of statutory sick pay per employee will be refunded by the Government in full. This will provide 2 million businesses with up to £2bn to cover the costs of large-scale sick leave.  

A dedicated helpline has been set up to help businesses and self-employed individuals in financial distress and with outstanding tax liabilities receive support with their tax affairs. Through this, businesses may be able to agree a bespoke Time to Pay arrangement.  

There will be a £3,000 cash grant to 700,000 of our smallest businesses, delivered by Local Authorities, and worth a total of £2bn.  

Finally, the Government is temporarily increasing the Business Rates retail discount in England to 100% for 2020-21 for properties below £51,000 rateable value. 

The Government currently advises businesses to continue to operate as usual.  There is presently no reason businesses or individuals should stop carrying out their daily activities as they normally would.  

• There is currently no need to close your workplace, cancel meetings or large-scale events or initiate working from home.  
• There is no need to close your workplace or send other staff home if a suspected case has recently been in your workplace, unless you have been directed to do so by the local Public Health England Health Protection Team. 
• Businesses are not being advised to cancel travel, except to at risk regions. FCO travel advice remains under constant review and the latest guidance can be found here.  
• Employees should continue to follow existing risk assessments and safe systems of work. There is no perceived increase in risk for handling post or freight from specified areas.  
• Sector specific guidance for care professionals, workers in education and other affected sectors is available on GOV.UK and updated regularly.  
• Businesses can check for daily updates at GOV.UK and subscribe to receive email alerts to ensure they are acting on the most up to date information. 

Norfolk Chambers is working in partnership with the UK Chamber network and the British Chambers of Commerce, to ensure the local voice of business is clearly being listened to.  We need to hear from you, about any challenges that your organisation is facing, and any potential solutions or support that you feel you would benefit from.  These can then be fed into central government, to be taken into account when they are drafting policies and processes to deal with the current COVID-19 situation.  Please contact our Head of Policy, Nova Fairbank on:

Email [email protected] or Call: 01603 729 713.

UK economic growth is expected to slow sharply in 2020 amid disruption caused by the impact of Coronavirus, according to the latest economic forecast by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).  The leading business group has downgraded its UK GDP growth expectations for 2020 to 0.8%, from our previous forecast of 1.0%. Outside of the 2008/09 financial crisis, this would be the weakest full-year growth outturn since 1992 and down sharply from UK GDP growth of 1.4% in 2019. UK GDP growth is then expected to pick up in subsequent years: to 1.4% in 2021 and 1.6% in 2022. Our forecast indicates that by the end of 2022, the UK economy will have grown below its historic average growth rate of 2.6% for eight successive years, the longest period since records began. The disruptive impact of Coronavirus is expected to weigh significantly on key drivers of UK GDP growth through the first half of 2020. A lack of clarity on the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU and other partners around the world and a struggling global economy is also predicted to limit UK’s near-term growth prospects:  

• UK export growth in 2020 is projected to be its weakest since 2009 as a subdued global economy, the impact of Coronavirus and uncertainty over future trading arrangements constrain export activity. 
• Business investment is expected to contract by 0.7% this year as the impact of Coronavirus, the cost of doing business in the UK and a lack of clarity on the future trading conditions limit investment intentions.  
• Growth in household spending in 2020 is predicted to be at its slowest since 2011, as the effect of Coronavirus temporarily weakens consumer demand, despite historically low unemployment.   

On the upside, historically strong levels of government spending – both observed in Budget 2020 and anticipated in the upcoming Spending Review and Autumn Budget – are expected to support the UK economy through the forecast period. The measures announced by the Bank of England, including lowering interest rates and steps to support business access to finance, will also help mitigate some of the impact of the Coronavirus on the UK economy.  Commenting on today’s forecast Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:   “Our latest forecast indicates that the UK economy faces a challenging short-term outlook. “It is increasingly likely that the boost from higher government spending and more political certainty, will be surpassed over the near-term by the negative impact of Coronavirus on the UK economy. “Although the scale and impact of Coronavirus remains highly uncertain, early evidence of disruption to supply chains and weakening in consumer demand and business activity could mean that even in the case of a temporary shock to the economy, there may be some long-term impact on economic output – particularly if significant action is needed to combat its spread.    “Failure to achieve a UK-EU arrangement conducive to trade is also a key risk to the outlook for the UK economy as disruption in early 2021 could adversely affect economic conditions.” Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, added:  “Coronavirus could further weaken an already stagnant UK economy, as many businesses are starting to report an impact on their cashflow and growth prospects.”  “The Chancellor and the Bank of England have responded to the immediate challenge with measures to help firms hit by Coronavirus, and they must now ensure this support gets to businesses as quickly as possible.  “More will need to be done later in the year to boost business confidence and tackle prolonged economic stagnation. Securing new trading arrangements, taking real action to reduce the high upfront costs of doing business and putting spades in the ground on long-overdue infrastructure projects must be prioritised in order to secure our long-term economic prospects.” Key points in the forecast: 

• UK GDP growth forecast for 2020 is downgraded from 1.0 to 0.8%, but upgraded from 1.3% to 1.4% in 2021 and the first forecast of 2021 growth is 1.6%
• Quarter-on-quarter GDP growth is forecast to 0.2% in Q1 2020, followed by a contraction of -0.1% in Q2
• BCC expectations for export growth have been downgraded to 0.1% in 2020 (from 1.1%) and 0.9% in 2021 (from 1.4%), before growth of 1.4% in 2022
• Forecast for business investment growth is unchanged at -0.7% for 2020, but downgraded to 0.6% for 2021 (from 0.8%), before growth of 1.0% in 2022 
• The forecast for household consumption growth been downgraded to 0.9% for 2020 (from 1.3%), 1.4% for 2021 (from 1.5%), before growth of 1.5% in 2022 
• Government spending growth been upgraded to 3.6% for 2020 (from 3.0%), to 3.0% for 2021 (unchanged), before growth slowing to 2.7% in 2022
• UK official interest rates are expected to rise from 0.25% to 0.75% by the end of 2020. Interest rates are then expected to rise to 1.0% in 2021

To ensure the International Documentation Team can continue to provide customers with a good level of service, should the situation with Coronavirus (COVID-19) worsen, Norfolk Chambers are putting a contingency plan in place which will minimise disruption.

Julie Austin, International Trade Manager said, “In the event that the Government progress the country to the ‘delay’ phase, we are strongly advising all customers to use our electronic platform – e-zCert. This will ensure almost all physical interactions between customers and our documentation team are eliminated but that documents can still be obtained quickly and easily.”

Customers can apply for their documents through the system by: 1. Selecting which document you are applying for 2. Filling in each required box with information verifiable from your back-up 3. Uploading appropriate back-up documents to evidence information stated on the form 4. The document is then checked by us to ensure it contains all required information and matches the back-up provided by you 5. If everything is in order the document is then approved by us and returned to you via the system

The ‘Express’ function of our system enables documents to be printed at customers’ premises. Blank forms can be purchased by customers in packs of 10 and the documents are applied for, checked, and approved through e-zCert.

For all customers using the e-zCert system for the first time we offer a free checking service to ensure they are confident when using it for documentation. If you would like to move across to the new system we highly recommend registering and familiarising yourself with it prior to any escalation of the COVID-19 situation.

You can find up-to-date advice from the Government here, advice from ACAS here, and resources from Public Health England to display at your workplace here.

If you have any questions about the e-zCert system or our international documentation services please get in touch with Julie Austin, International Trade Manager on 01603 729706 or at [email protected]  

The Big Issue

The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee have launched their ‘My BEIS Inquiry’ and are inviting members of the public, including business owners, employees, consumers, academics and activists, to submit proposals for what the Committee should investigate. Submissions can cover ideas from across BEIS remit which includes:  

• Business
• Industrial Strategy
• Consumer Protection
• Corporate Governance
• Jobs and working conditions
• Energy policy
• Clean growth
• Climate change

The BEIS Committee have previously conducted inquiries into a range of issues including automation and the future of work, executive pay and the gender pay gap, product safety (with a particular focus on Whirlpool’s defective tumble dryers) and how we can tackle climate change and reduce the UK’s carbon emissions to net zero.

The Committee values diversity and encourages proposals from people who have not previously engaged with the Committee, and suggestions for areas that they have not previously explored.

How to get involved

Complete the short online form to submit your ideas to the BEIS Committee. Proposals for inquiries should briefly outline:

• The nature of the issue that the Committee should explore
• Why it deserves attention
• How Government policy in this area could be developed or improved.

A selection of the submissions will be shortlisted for an opportunity to give a 5 minute ‘pitch’ to Members of the Committee at UK Parliament later this year. The pitches will be open to the public.  These pitches will help the Committee to learn more about the issue raised before taking a final decision on which subjects to launch an inquiry on.

Submissions will be selected based on merit. In particular, the Committee will be looking for inquiries that are:

• within the Committee’s remit;
• are current;
• have potential for high impact;
• bring a new issue to the forefront or a fresh perspective to an existing problem.

The Committee is not able to take up individual complaints or cases. ‘Pitches’ will take place in public evidence sessions to ensure participants’ concerns reach a wider audience and be entered into the permanent parliamentary record.

The Committee have put together a list of Frequently Asked Questions which provides more information about the work of the Committee and guidance for completing your submission.

The deadline to submit inquiry ideas is Tuesday 31 March 2020.

Note from the Chair

Rachel Reeves MP, Chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee said:

“We are keen to hear ideas from the public about what they see as the issues the BEIS Committee should be exploring over this Parliament. This is an opportunity for the public, including entrepreneurs, workers, trade unions, campaigners, academics, activists and others from sectors including business and industry, local government, consumer, and energy, to use their expertise and experience to highlight ideas and policy areas which they think need attention. We are eager to see these inquiry proposals and explore how we as a Committee can take the best ideas forward.”

For any questions about the inquiry contact [email protected]

To keep updated with the inquiry follow @CommonsBEIS on Twitter and use the hashtag #MyBEISInquiry

COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus (the family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to SARS) which originated in the Wuhan area of China in late 2019. 

Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu, and many individuals experience mild to moderate symptoms. The elderly and immunocompromised are more at risk of experiencing severe symptoms and complications as a result of the illness. 

Below are resources to help businesses during the outbreak.

ACAS ACAS recommends employers consider some simple steps to help protect the health and safety of staff in case COVID-19 spreads more widely in the UK. They state it’s good practice for employers to:

• Keep everyone updated on actions being taken to reduce risks of exposure in the workplace
• Make sure everyone’s contact numbers and emergency contact details are up to date
• Make sure managers know how to spot symptoms of coronavirus and are clear on any relevant processes and procedures
• Make sure there are clean places to wash hands with hot water and soap and encourage everyone to wash their hands regularly
• Provide hand sanitiser and tissues for staff and encourage their use
• Consider if any travel planned to affected areas is essential

For more detailed guidance and advice on employer responsibilities and best practice take a look at their website.

Public Health England Public Health England has released a number of resources which businesses can display to help stop the spread of viruses like COVID-19. These primarily encourage good hand and respiratory hygiene, check out their website for more information.

Government Advice The Government’s advice is updated on a daily basis to reflect the changing situation. It is good practice check it regularly for updates.

Norfolk Chambers Policy Norfolk Chambers of Commerce will be taking a common-sense approach to the COVID-19 outbreak and adhering to all Government advice.

In view of the latest advice from Government on Monday evening, we have taken the decision to cancel our events until the end of April 2020.  At this point we will review the situation.  If you are booked to attend an event between now and 30 April, we will contact you regarding this booking.

In line with official guidance we do ask that all individuals who are experiencing COVID-19 like symptoms, have returned from an affected area, or have been in close contact in the last two weeks with an individual who has (or is suspected of having) contracted the virus to not attend meetings or events with us.

Take a look at our Coronavirus Advice for Businesses page for more information.

COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus (the family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to SARS) which originated in the Wuhan area of China in late 2019.

The majority of cases are still within China although cases are being detected around the world. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.

Many individuals experience mild to moderate symptoms although the elderly and immunocompromised are more at risk of experiencing severe symptoms and complications as a result of the illness.

Given the fast spread of the virus the Government have issued official guidelines and policies aiming to contain the spread. Coronavirus (COVID-19) has now been officially classified as a notable disease which allows businesses to make applicable insurance claims for business disruption arising from its spread.

BUSINESS ADVICE

Hygiene is key:

• Encourage regular handwashing for 20 seconds and coughing and sneezing into tissues which are then thrown away
• Consider providing hand sanitiser and tissues in key locations
• Encourage employees who are unwell, returning from affected areas, or have come into close contact in the last two weeks with an individual who has (or is suspected of having) contracted the virus not to come into the workplace

Communicate:

• Keep employees updated on policies and actions taken
• Ensure up-to-date emergency contact info is kept for all employees
• Ensure all managers understand the symptoms of COVID-19 so they can spot them in good time
• Ensure all managers understand policies and processes should a case be identified

Define your policies:

• If you’re due to travel to an affected area consider whether it is essential – avoid it wherever possible, instead utilise online meeting platforms if this is the reason for your visit
• Clarify whether employees who self-isolate will qualify for sick pay – the government has stated that if someone has been advised by NHS 111 or a doctor to self-isolate they should receive any statutory sick pay due to them
• Clarify your working from home policy, this could be used to encourage employees returning from affected areas to self-isolate with full pay
• Review and communicate your business continuity plan to minimise disruption should the situation arise
• Review your insurance policies so you can understand what would or wouldn’t be covered in the event of disruption

Keep an eye on the wider impact:

• Review your current suppliers to identify any that may be affected and contact them to understand what the implications to your business could be
• Check any upcoming trade shows booked are going ahead and monitor regularly for any changes
• Consider putting contingency plans in place to cover you in case there are any disruptions to either suppliers or customers

Resources are available to help you plan ahead.  

Norfolk Chambers Policy Norfolk Chambers of Commerce will be taking a common-sense approach to the COVID-19 outbreak and adhering to all Government advice.

As at Tuesday 17 March, we have taken the decision to postpone all events/training courses until the end of April 2020 based on the latest government live update by the Prime Minister.  We will reconsider our position on events at the end of this period.  In the meantime, if you are booked onto an event during this period, we will be in touch to advise you about your booking.  

In line with official guidance we do ask that all individuals who are experiencing COVID-19 like symptoms, have returned from an affected area, or have been in close contact in the last two weeks with an individual who has (or is suspected of having) contracted the virus to not attend meetings or events with us.