the business ladder

Following the Met Office’s warning of heavy snow at the end of November, small businesses have been advised to put contingency plans in place now for disruption from bad weather during the Winter months.

In particular, the East Midlands, Yorkshire and Humber and the North East have been warned to expect severe weather during the last week of November, with businesses potentially suffering badly from the effects.

Last year, businesses across the UK suffered disruption from the coldest winter for 30 years. This year, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales ICAEW) has warned companies to be better prepared.

“While last winter’s erratic weather is still fresh in their memory, firms need to think how they might react better this winter and what reasonable measures could be taken to alleviate the effects. This means making sure that staff know what to do if bad weather strikes.”

“In addition, employers should keep an eye on the weather in the afternoon, taking care that workers do not get trapped at work and are put at risk as weather conditions worsen.”

Chris Gorman, spokesperson for the Forum of Private Business (FPB) has urged businesses to plan for the potential negative financial effects of bad weather and encouraged the body’s members to use their telephone helpline.

“We can advise our members on how to draw continuity plans up through our general helpline. They can also get general advice on how to cope with weather-related problems, such as employee absence and disruption to supplies, through our 24-hour legal helpline.”

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