Sheffielders urged to support small independent businesses who may be struggling during coronavirus

The days of browsing the shops may be over for a while as many self-isolate or obey the government’s social distancing rules to help minimise the spread of Covid-19.

But as many small and creative businesses in Sheffield face this unprecedented challenge they are sharing ways in which city residents can offer their support.

When buying gifts, people are asked to check if they can order online or over the phone from their favourite shop before heading to other larger retailers.

Rona Stevenson, owner of Within Reason, has been taking payments over the phone and mailing goods to customers. “There's a small charge for postage but this is less than a bus fare or car park charge so doesn't actually end up costing the customer more,” she said.

“We regularly post images of new stock on our Facebook page and our friendly staff are great at helping people to find the item they want over the phone."

The emphasis is on how businesses can market their stock online or mail order services to make it easier for customers to find and buy from them.

Some can take card payments over the phone, through PayPal orders or by email, helping to deter the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

They also sell via online platforms like Etsy or Not on the High Street making it easy for those who are self-isolating at home to send gifts directly to the recipient.

Helen Darlington, owner of Robin’s Room, designs and produces hand-printed fabrics. She said: “Online and mail order sales are going to become even more important to local artists and makers in the coming weeks. Sheffield people buying from their own community would certainly help us to keep going.

“Luckily a lot of Etsy or Not on the High street sellers work from home already, so we are still able to produce work to sell without too much disruption so far.”

Check out Within Reason online or call 0114 2493346.

Find Robin’s Room on Etsy or Not on the High Street. You can also email [email protected].