MORE than 100 businesses have sought expert local advice to navigate through the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Deeside Business Forum (DBF) has formed the Business Advisory Team to provide help to organisations throughout North Wales.

The group – including DBF Chair Askar Sheibani – has since processed more than 100 enquiries from organisations seeking guidance as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact business trading and cash flow.

The scheme has also won the praise of Ken Skates MS, Minister for the economy, transport and North Wales.

He said: “It’s good to see people helping each other at this time and I would encourage those who may need further or follow-on support to also make contact with Business Wales.

“This is an extremely challenging time for businesses across Wales and the package of support offered by the Welsh Government in response to Covid-19 is the most generous for businesses anywhere in the UK.

“We will continue to work with our partners through our regional teams and Business Wales to ensure people have access to advice and support.”

The DBF specialist team of volunteer advisors has been on hand to businesses across North Wales to help with accessing loans and grants, strategic planning and issues such as legal and HR.

Advisors from sectors across the region continue to liaise with businesses seeking support and signpost them to the relevant services.

The service is totally independent, free and can be contacted via email or telephone.

Askar Sheibani, chair of the DBF, said he was pleased the group had made such a significant impact.

He said: “I am so proud of our volunteers. I cannot thank them enough. With every individual business we save, we save many livelihoods within our communities in North Wales.

“The coronavirus pandemic has created a mountain of challenge. The business community in North Wales contributes significantly to the wider national economy and I am pleased that our team of experts has been able to lend its support to organisations across the region.

“This service is completely free and will continue to provide backing to local companies throughout this crisis to ensure the resilience of these organisations moving forward.

“I encourage any organisation or business that requires help to reach out to our dedicated team of professionals immediately.”

To contact the DBF Business Advice Team, email business.advice@deesidebusinessforum.co.uk or call 07720 640046.

For more information visit www.deesidebusinessforum.co.uk