Hospitality and businesses in the wider visitor economy are being forced to close their doors when a member of the team isolates.

We are calling for specific support for independents and small businesses so they do not risk long term closure.

We are seeing an increasing number of independent businesses in hospitality and the wider visitor economy being forced to close their doors when a member of their team isolates. Without specific support this could close them down.

Every industry, every sector, every business has been threatened by Covid but we need to look at specific support for our smallest, our grassroots and our most vulnerable businesses.

When a member of their team tests positive, they often do not have the space or staff resources to continue to operate. Instead, they have to close losing up to ten days worth of business.

This summer is critical for those independents. Especially those who may not have been able to deliver or had to pivot their business model during the course of the pandemic.

These businesses are a crucial ingredient in our high streets and our city centres. They are homegrown and they need to be nurtured to be protected.

Imagine seeing your business survive the past 18 months, only to see it threatened while the government shouts about recovery.

A dedicated grant to support these firms would help cover the costs they still have to invest in while they close their doors. Things like food they can no longer sell, or staff costs as furlough cover reduces, rent and more.

Let us not let our independents down at this final hurdle.

Bill Addy
CEO
Liverpool BID Company

Find out more