Scotland is in lockdown. Shops are closing and newspaper sales are falling fast. We're not exaggerating when we say that the future of the Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter is under threat.

Please consider supporting the Reporter in whatever way you can – by paying just 85p for a copy of the paper, when you're shopping for essential supplies for yourself and others, or by subscribing to our e-edition here.

Thanks – and stay safe.

.................................

BUSINESSES across Dumbarton and the Vale struggling to cope with the rapidly changing impact of the coronavirus outbreak are being encouraged to seek support.

Business Gateway West Dunbartonshire is ensuring local business owners in the area have access to crucial help at this time of national crisis.

Advisers are offering small and medium business owners one-to-one appointments via video or telephone calls.

All previously planned workshops are now available as webinars.

Gillian Scholes, Business Gateway West Dunbartonshire, said: “We want to reassure business owners that we will continue to help them throughout the current crisis – whether that’s on the phone, a video call, a virtual workshop or through practical guidance on our website.

“We know that this situation feels confusing or overwhelming for business owners, and that having someone to speak to can be really helpful.

“We will continue to provide new digital resources, expand our delivery of virtual services and, crucially, give businesses reassurance and advice throughout the coronavirus outbreak.”

New resources now available include a guide and tutorial on business continuity planning, advice on shifting work to the home environment, how best to use digital channels to communicate with customers and employees and support for those experiencing stress and anxiety.

Business Gateway is also supporting the Scottish Government and local authorities to deliver grants that will help businesses deal with the impact of COVID-19.

The one-off grants, from the UK Government’s £1 billion Business Support Fund, are designed to help protect jobs, prevent business closures and promote economic recovery.

For practical advice and guidance to help protect your business from the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, contact Business Gateway West Dunbartonshire on 0141 530 2408.

Or for further information on the Business Support Fund, please visit gov.scot/news/gbp-1-billion-business-support-fund-opens/.