I WOULD like to send my support to all businesses, residents and communities affected by the horrendous floods that have resulted from the impact of the recent storms that we have experienced.

Last week, central government announced that they will provide financial support to those affected by flooding.

The Business Flood Recovery Grant for business premises includes a grant up to £2,500 per small/medium-sized business affected. Businesses are also eligible where the business has suffered severe impacts, either directly or a loss of trade, as a result of the flooding that cannot be recovered from insurance.

Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick also announced that households and businesses significantly affected by flooding will be eligible for 100 per cent council tax and business rates relief for at least three months. There is also a £5,000 resilience grant to support business and homes become more resilient to future flooding.

Worcestershire County Council has announced an emergency package of support to help communities to recover from flooding. In addition to the major package of support announced by Government, £250,000 will be put forward by the County Council after some of the worst flooding that the county has seen for many years.

Wyre Forest District Council has also confirmed financial support for households and businesses suffering flooding as a result of Storm Dennis, The Council is granting 100 per cent council tax and business rates relief for three months for dwellings or business premises that were flooded. This applies to a number of properties in Bewdley, Wolverley and Stourport. Any household or business that has been flooded and thinks it may be eligible for this support should get in touch with the Hub at Green Street, Kidderminster by emailing customerservices@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or call 01562 732928 so that their eligibility can be confirmed.

A financial support package has also been unveiled by Malvern Hills District Council on top of the county council’s Fund to help residents, businesses and communities affected by the impact of Storm Dennis. A total of £100,000 is being made available to support projects that help the long-term recovery of areas impacted by flooding. Residents and businesses affected need to register their details by using the form online at malvernhills.gov.uk/flood-support.

We will be keeping an eye out for any further funding opportunities from local and national government to help those affected, please do keep up to date with our website, hwchamber.co.uk where we will be sharing any further news that we hear of that will help and any further government support or funding available in the area.

We would urge any businesses that has been hit by the floods to contact us by calling 01906 673600.