The Welsh Assembly Member for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders AM – has today (22 April) welcomed the UK’s new ‘support finder’ tool, designed to help businesses quickly and easily determine what financial support is available to them throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her comments come as businesses throughout the Conwy Valley report their worst quarter since the Foot and Mouth Crisis. Among those employers hardest hit are the region’s hospitality businesses, who are forecast to lose a significant proportion of the £6.3 billion spent by tourists in Wales every year.  

The support finder tool (found here: www.gov.uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder ) asks firms and individuals to fill out a simple online questionnaire, after which they will then be directed to a list of all the financial support, they may be eligible for. The UK Government says that this takes a matter of minutes to complete.

Commenting on the situation, Janet said: 

 “Over the past month, I have received an unprecedented level of correspondence from concerned business owners enquiring as to what help is available to them.  

 “The UK Government have announced an unprecedented and welcomed package of support to protect jobs, businesses and incomes throughout these challenging times.  

“Clarity is essential to our hard-hit businesses, many of whom are reporting their worst quarter of trading since the Foot and Mouth Crisis.

“I urge Conwy-based firms, as well as the self-employed, to use this straightforward digital tool. A response will be offered in just a matter of minutes, helping you quickly and easily determine what financial support is available. 

"I would like to remind all constituents that my office remains open for any queries or concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are in need of help or advice.

ENDS

Notes to Editors: 

• UK Coronavirus Business Support Finder: www.gov.uk/business-coronavirus-support-finder