Calderdale businesses can now access additional free advice to assist them in their growth and address challenges such as the rising cost of living.
In 2021, Calderdale Council established the Place Development Team with the aim of aiding local hospitality businesses in their recovery from the pandemic. Since then, the team’s scope has expanded to provide support and foster business engagement across a broader spectrum of sectors. This assistance is offered through in-person visits, drop-in events, email correspondence, and telephone consultations.
To further enhance this ongoing support, the team is introducing online advisory sessions, in addition to their regular face-to-face drop-ins at libraries throughout Calderdale. The Virtual Hub sessions provide businesses with a more convenient option for obtaining the assistance they require, especially if they are unable to attend the physical business hubs.
In response to the heightened national cost of living challenges experienced last year, the team initiated regular business advice hubs in local libraries. To date, over 65 local businesses have availed themselves of this service, seeking guidance on a range of matters, from event promotion support to information regarding significant regeneration projects in their vicinity.
Cllr Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector, said:
“Our advice hubs in libraries have proved to be a great addition for local businesses since we set them up last year. We understand the difficulties they are facing, especially with the cost of living crisis. Our Place Development Team is always there to lend a helping hand, both in and outside of the sessions.
“By adding the Virtual Hub sessions, we’re hoping to make the team’s support even more accessible to all businesses in Calderdale. Helping our towns and places to thrive is a priority.”
Leanne, Manager at The Space at Field Lane community centre, expressed gratitude to the Place Development Team for their assistance in promoting the centre’s hire facilities and the accessibility of Changing Places toilets through the Council’s website and Visit Calderdale platform. Leanne attested that, thanks to the support provided, the centre has witnessed a significant surge in bookings, resulting in much-needed additional revenue.
To reserve a spot in a Virtual Hub session, please visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/calderdale-council-place-development-team-71831403553.
The in-person hubs operate as follows:
Beechwood Road Library, Illingworth: first Thursday of the month, 10.30am – 11.30am
Brighouse Library: first Thursday of every month, 1pm – 2.30pm
Elland Library: first Wednesday of every month, 10am – 11am
Hebden Bridge Library: first Wednesday of the month, 10.30am – 12pm
King Cross Library: first Monday of every month, 1pm – 2pm
Sowerby Bridge Library: first Friday of the month, 10.30am – 12pm
Todmorden Library: first Friday of the month, 10.30am – 12pm
The Place Development Team is diligently working to engage with businesses throughout Calderdale, and recently earned recognition with the Town and Place Ambassador Award in the Council’s Our Stars staff awards.
