Council backs new training to boost local businesses during a pandemic

Horsham District Council has appointed the Chichester College Group and  Solent University to carry out a programme of free training and support for district-wide high street businesses to help them  trade effectively during the  ongoing pandemic.

The innovative new programme, called the Horsham Market Towns Programme (HMTP) will focus on enabling businesses to adapt to changing trading conditions and is fully funded by the EU’s Reopening High Streets Safely Fund

The programme comprises six virtual interactive workshops with 15 one- to -one follow up site visits or online sessions, with individual businesses.  As well as opening and operating safely under the restrictions of a pandemic, the workshops and visits will also cover:

* Accessing financial help

* Ensuring new business models work effectively

* Developing online ordering and delivery systems

* Developing an online presence

* Advertising / marketing / promotion

* Getting the best value from suppliers.

Commenting on the new training programme, Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for the Local Economy Cllr Paul Clarke said:

“I am delighted that we have partnered with two such leading education establishments to deliver this key training at this difficult time for local businesses.

“These webinars are free to attend and will provide just the right skills development and insights, as well as opportunities to discuss new business operating models and emerging high street trends.

“I would encourage as many local traders as possible to sign up and reap the benefits.”

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for the Local Economy Cllr Paul Clarke

Paul Rolfe, Director of Commercial, Marketing, Sales & Public Affairs at the Chichester College Group, added:

“We are proud to be able to deliver this fantastic series of training, which we believe will be extremely beneficial to high street businesses across the Horsham District.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has meant businesses will need to evolve to meet changing demand and we have developed a number of free workshops, all delivered online, which will help businesses adapt and rebuild.

“This is an opportunity for local businesses and we look forward to working with them through the Horsham Market Towns Programme.”

Paul Rolfe, Director of Commercial, Marketing, Sales & Public Affairs at the Chichester College Group

For more information or to register your business, visit: Horsham Market Towns Programme

The training courses are available now and will run until end March 2021.

For media queries please email press@horsham.gov.uk .