Businesses in Dorset are being warned to prepare for the worst as the coronavirus pandemic hits hard.
Dorset Chamber has urged firms to brace themselves for stricter government measures to be urgently imposed to combat the rapidly escalating outbreak.
It comes after huge numbers of people ignored official warnings to stay at home and after the first death in Dorset.
Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “All businesses need to be prepared for the worst and brace themselves for strict new government measures, which could come very quickly.
“I have been astounded at the blatant disregard some members of the public have shown for the official guidance and fully expect the Government to get tough.
“I would urge everyone to rigorously follow the Government advice, particularly about social distancing.
“As a chamber we are totally committed to supporting our members and non-members in the wider business community in Dorset.
“We will continue to be there for businesses, and have a comprehensive section on our website with guidance, advice and support, which is being updated daily or as developments happen.
“Our Dorset Gateway support service is fielding a huge number of calls. We have stepped up this service with support from the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, including a dedicated team to provide assistance for businesses.”
The chamber is telling businesses how to access the government support through its website and Dorset Gateway service.
Daily LinkedIn videos by Ian also give valuable information about where to get help. So far they have been watched more than 10,000 times.
The Dorset Chamber has also joined forces with Bournemouth, Bridport, Dorchester, Ferndown, Shaftesbury, Sherborne, Sturminster Newton and Weymouth and Portland chambers in a letter to PM Boris Johnson calling for more support.
Visit the Dorset Chamber at https://www.dorsetchamber.co.uk/business-support/coronavirus-covid-19/ for more information and Ian Girling’s LinkedIn page for videos at https://www.linkedin.com/in/iangirling/.