The Coronavirus Support Schemes Survey was designed as a follow-up to the BOSS/BPIF Business Impact Survey conducted in March. At a time of huge concern and uncertainty amongst all businesses, and a constantly evolving situation, it is vital to ensure that businesses are getting the emergency assistance they require when they require it.

This survey on the Government support schemes was designed to collect feedback and opinions on the main Government support schemes, how companies were able to access them and how effective they were being.

It has confirmed the acute importance of the support schemes to both sectors when so much of the economy is temporarily unable to operate. 12 per cent of responders have ceased operations entirely, with a further 73 per cent relying upon the Job Retention Scheme. The survey highlights the need for greater flexibility within the scheme and this is something we continue to lobby Government for.

BOSS is in frequent contact with Government and, with the evidence collected through its industry research, BOSS has been able to represent its industries and lobby for adjustments to the Government support schemes. Government has listened and continues to recognise the importance and value that trade associations provide in linking business and Government.

BOSS said, “the CBILs scheme had significant teething problems but is now becoming more effective, although we have significant reservations about debt being offered as support, rather than grants and other direct relief. Finally, with the vast majority of companies not expecting demand to recover any time soon we feel it is vital that support schemes stay in place to avoid large scale company failures and job losses while the economy recovers. Ours is a resilient and entrepreneurial sector, but it will need time and support to recover.”

Please visit here to download the Executive Summary report or full survey results with comments.