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How could the new Peer Network programme help your business recover from the impact of COVID-19?

Colin Bell, Business Growth Director at the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, explains how the new Peer Networks programme works, and how it will help businesses in the North East recover from the impact of COVID-19.

What is a Peer Network?

Peer Networks are part of the government’s COVID-19 recovery plan and they give businesses the opportunity to come together and learn with and from peers who are experiencing similar issues.

We know that many businesses in our region continue to be hit hard by the pandemic and we want people to be able to support each other, learn from each other, and develop practical solutions to the problems many of us are facing.

How could joining a Peer Network help me and my business?

By joining a Peer Network you can take a short cut and learn from other people who might have already solved some of the problems your business is facing.

The Peer Network members will drive the focus of each group, so you might want to find out about attracting new customers, supporting your staff, or learning to use digital technology in new ways – whatever are the most important issues for you and your business.

The networks are also there to help you as an individual, allowing us to support each other’s wellbeing and mental health. At the heart of Peer Networks are businesses coming together and supporting one another at this very difficult time.

What types of businesses can join?

There will be 34 Peer Networks in the North East LEP region, for businesses in a range of sectors from retail and hospitality through to offshore energy and advanced manufacturing.

Peer Networks are open to businesses that have been operating for at least a year, and had two or more employees, and a turnover of £100,000 or more prior to the pandemic.

What format will be Peer Network sessions take?

Peer Networks will take part in workshops within their small groups, plus separate one-to-one coaching for each business. The sessions will take place either online or in-person, depending on the current COVID-19 guidelines.

How will Peer Networks help the regional economy recover from COVID-19?

Peer Networks are fundamental to our economic response to the pandemic.

It’s a fast-changing environment and it’s one of the most difficult times many businesses have ever faced. Peer Networks will enable us to find a route through this together.

Apply to join a Peer Network in the North East.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by North East LEP .