Under the banner of #TogetherForBusiness, the Chamber continues to respond to the challenges and uncertainty as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

We are working tirelessly to support our businesses through our engagement with the Scottish and UK Governments, hosting weekly events, sharing important information and opportunities and promoting the wonderful products and services available in Dunbartonshire.

Confirmation last week that the furlough scheme will be extended across the UK until the end of March gives Scottish businesses some hope that we may be able to survive and work through this crisis.

Whilst this is very welcome, we still need to tackle the ongoing uncertainty that is impacting business confidence, employee motivation and our ability to plan and invest.

Movement in the management of the virus must be towards the re-opening of the economy, with support such as the furlough scheme available to assist businesses if restrictions need to be imposed.

The Chamber network is calling on the chancellor to expand his commitment to providing businesses with additional guaranteed grants support to help businesses recover.

To support employability The Chamber is helping businesses onto the Kickstart Scheme, a fully funded opportunity for businesses to take on an unemployed young person for six months.

These six month placements are open to those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and are available across a wide range of sectors. We would be delighted for any businesses interested in finding out more, or wishing to submit an application, to get in touch – they don’t need to be a Chamber member.

The Chamber is currently spearheading Shop Local Campaigns in five towns across Dunbartonshire under the LovesLocal banner – Clydebank, Dumbarton, Alexandria and the Vale, Bearsden, and Bishopbriggs. We are keen to list any business – freelancers, home-based, sole traders as well as our high street retailers – in or around any of the towns we are working in. Again, they don’t need to be a Chamber member.

We would also call on our businesses and communities to get behind the Loves Local campaigns by following our social media channels, sharing, commenting and posting.

By connecting with the Chamber businesses can find out about a host of other opportunities including international trade, grants and funding, skills and young people, as well as our busy calendar of events and training opportunities.

If you want to connect with our wonderful business community or to find out more about the benefits of being a member of the Chamber please get in touch on 0141 280 0272, email hello@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk or visit the website at www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk