Cheshire East Council has launched a scheme seeking to help Congleton businesses support each other during the coronavirus outbreak.

The scheme, which can be accessed via the council's website seeks to match businesses that are in need of help, to those that are in a position to help across a number of areas, such as;

Staffing - to support another business;

Delivering services or goods;

Supportive mentor phone calls;

Business rates advice;

Business finance information; and

Advice and guidance

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council said: "I would like to reassure our residents and local businesses that we are working daily with partner agencies to coordinate our efforts, particularly with a focus on those who may be struggling at this time.

"The Covid-19 pandemic is seeing a major effect on our economy and Cheshire East Council is working with central government to support businesses through a range of measures.

"This scheme seeks to give support across our business community now – while we are in the midst of the pandemic – enabling all, from sole traders to large corporations to come together in collaborative partnerships.

"Following the recent announcement of support from central government, we are working hard to put in place measures from government to help those who may be struggling financially. Details of this can be found on the council's website."

If you are a business owner that can offer help, or a business in need of support, please visit Cheshire East's 'business helping business' web pages.

For more government advice on coronavirus financial support for businesses, visit the gov.uk website.