In a video available now, John Bridge, CEO of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, was the first to talk to John Gourd about the significant challenges faced by the region's businesses during the lockdown.
Pointing out that people were finding life difficult for personal as well as business reasons, he said that by week six of the lockdown, the novelty had worn off and many were feeling frustrated because they would like to be able to plan ahead.
John Bridge said the Chamber had welcomed the various government interventions, but some had presented hurdles and many people were still not getting the right amount of help and support. "We need some certainty going forward," he said.
Businesses needed to understand when and how and what are the parameters within which they can return to work. Definitive guidelines would be necessary for businesses to know the legal health and safety requirements for their operations, he added.
He was clear that the return to 'normal' business was likely to take a period of at least several months and suggested that everyone would need to think strategically about the way ahead. As cash is king, it could be helpful to engage an independent mentor to help businesses adapt, gain customers, keep costs down and generate much-needed revenue.