Last updated 15:43, Wednesday, 19 November 2008

BUSINESSES can now get help to survive the current economic slow down with a package of free support services.

Delivered by Business Link Northwest, the variety of services focus on cash flow, finance and staff training.

Online business ‘health checks’ will play a key role in identifying problems early on and financial information has been pulled together to help the cash flow of local businesses.

A strong workforce is also being hailed as crucial to riding out the credit crunch and training for businesses of all sectors has been made available through the Train to Gain initiative.

The support package follows a Government announcement to help small and medium-sized businesses through the recent economic challenges.

Peter Watson, managing director of Business Link Northwest, said: “As the economic downturn bites, we fully recognise the need to support small and medium sized businesses by helping them access finance, improve efficiency and maintain their long-term sustainability. In short we want to help local businesses plan for the difficult times ahead and ensure that they emerge strong and competitive.”

The Government also plans to build on its commitment to pay firms within 10 days by working with NHS trusts, local authorities and other public sector employers to seek opportunities to extend the payment target. Business Link Northwest has also committed to the 10 day supplier payment promise.

For more details visit www. businesslink.gov.uk/northwest/ creditcrunch or call 0845 0066888.