Supporting Somerset businesses through the pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic saw increased demand for business support services as tourism businesses struggled to keep the doors open under unprecedented conditions. Melanie and Jason were involved in delivering a business support programme across Somerset, working for a destination partnership comprising the county’s local authorities and DMOs. 

 

As project director Melanie was responsible for liaising with the client, recruiting an advisor team, programme design and set up and overseeing delivery. Regular meetings with the commissioning organisation and the project team ensured that over 250 businesses received tailored support and benefited from three sets of webinars and a new online toolkit, Somerset Boost.

 

Jason joined the advisor team and provided 1-1 support to over 30 businesses from sectors as diverse as visitor attractions, self-catered accommodation, cultural venues and hospitality businesses. Melanie also worked as an advisor focusing on the creative industries and businesses that target corporate clients as well as delivering the direct marketing webinars. 

 

The programme was delivered by a partnership of consultancies including Avenue Six, Tomorrow’s Tourism and Live Tourism.