Businesses in Dorset are being urged to step up Brexit preparations as developments at Westminster reach crunch point.

Dorset Chamber, the county’s leading business support organisation, has launched a new package of support to help firms face life outside the EU – with or without a deal.

It includes:

• Brexit action pack with sector specific guides for 18,500 businesses in Dorset
• Legal advice hotline
• Brexit e-newsletter
• Major conference on October 29
• Dedicated Brexit advisor
• Social media and website support

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber’s Chief Executive, said: “Businesses cannot afford to wait and see what happens at Westminster.

“They must act now to ensure they are as ready as they can be whether we have a deal or not.

“Our newly launched support package is designed to help businesses to put preparations in place right now whatever the outcome.

“I would urge all firms, members and non-Chamber members, to take advantage of the help on offer to help them face the future with confidence and readiness.”

The Chamber has produced an action pack called Brexit Information and Guidance. It is being posted to 18,500 businesses in Dorset.

It has also drawn up sector-specific factsheets for the care, farming, financial services, food and drink, manufacturing and engineering, retail and tourism.

All of this information is also available in a special Brexit Support section on the Chamber website.

The Chamber is also holding A Brexit Conference – Deal or No Deal – on October 29 at the Hallmark Hotel in Bournemouth.

The free event is open to all businesses in Dorset and will include speakers, advice, a Q&A and support.

Further measures being provided by the Chamber – Dorset’s voice of business – include a legal advice helpline.

This is open until October 31 for businesses with concerns about the implications of a no deal. Call 01202 786183 and ask for Lucy Taylor.

As well as social media, the Chamber has launched a new Brexit e-newsletter and has support on the Brexit section of its website with information from a wide range of sources, including the Government, British Chambers of Commerce and the Health and Safety Executive.

The Chamber has also joined forces with the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council and Dorset Council to employ a dedicated Brexit adviser from November 14.

The expert will offer free support and advice for businesses across Dorset whether chamber members or not.

Visit www.dorsetchamber.co.uk for more information about any of the Brexit support or call 01202 714800.