ACS

More than 95,000 businesses have benefited from a Business Link "Health Check", helping them to limit the impact of the economic downturn, Business Minister Lord Davies announced today.

A year on from its launch, an average of 1,834 businesses a week have used the free business support service to help identify any potential problems early on, helping them shore up business plans amidst the difficult economic conditions.
Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business, Lord Davies said: "Health Checks are an important way for smaller companies with fewer staff and limited resources to access financial support and expert advice to steer them through tough economic times and help inspire confidence.

"But as well as identifying potential challenges posed by the economic downturn, this service can help identify potential opportunities for businesses.

"I encourage more firms to get in touch with Business Link to see if they could benefit from advice on areas such as accessing new markets and preparing for growth."

The Health Check service is open to all businesses, regardless of size and sector. Following an initial review, qualified experts can help draw-up business plans, while Business Link also provides a follow-on and monitoring service to ensure the plan is working.

David Parkin, Business Link National Network Director said: "Businesses across the country have benefited from the Business Link Health Check as it gives them the opportunity to review their performance and to look for early signs of issues that may affect their profitability.

"It has been very successful because it offers an impartial, objective assessment of business performance that identifies key strengths, prioritises areas for improvement and highlights opportunities. Businesses, regardless of size or sector, have found value in the Health Check as it enables them to pause and take stock of their current situation."

Click here to visit the Business Link website.