Sheffield industrialist speaks out for SMEs in time of crisis

James Harding-Terry, chairman of Steetley Corner Group, of Holbrook Industrial Estate, Holbrook, has raised awareness of the UK's 5.82 million SME businesses, which are trying in the face of adversity to maintain productivity to protect their businesses and the future welfare of their employees.

Mr Harding-Terry has had more than 50,000 views on a LinkedIn post he published, spelling out what the Government's Covid-19 directives mean for businesses and employees.

He said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK's economy, providing about 60 per cent of the total employment in this country, yet a general misunderstanding around work responsibilities at this time will push many to the brink of collapse.

“As a business owner, I feel compelled to spell out that the government guidelines around Covid-19 are not just about protecting our health and the NHS, but they are also there to help businesses to continue operating as far as is practicable.

“The government website for businesses and Covid-19 says quite clearly, that 'with the exception of some non-essential shops and public venues, we are not asking any other businesses to close – indeed it is important for business to carry on.'”

Government guidance for businesses states ‘certain jobs require people to travel to their place of work’.

Mr Harding-Terry said: “All businesses owe a debt to those employees who still attend and maintain productivity to keep the economy turning, despite the fact that very few companies will even approach a profit in 2020.

“SMEs are going to need all the support they can get if the UK is to keep any sustainable employment following the crisis, and that includes support from their employees.

“In truth, the financial support being offered to SMEs is not going to save those businesses from bankruptcy.

“We need, as a nation, to fight tooth and claw to keep our SMEs operating as they follow government guidance to protect employees' health.”