Dorset Council has stepped up to help support businesses suffering from supply chain problems due to coronavirus.

Chief Executive of Dorset Council, Matt Prosser, issued an email to local businesses who act as suppliers for the council reassuring them that the council is doing everything that it can to help them during this difficult time.

Mr Prosser wrote: “The current outbreak of COVID-19 is unprecedented and it is recognised that it will have significant impact on businesses of all sizes.

“Working together collectively, to flow cash through the supply chain, will support the ability for us all to resume normal service when the outbreak is over.”

Dorset Council has taken steps to implement contingency plans for their suppliers, such as increased payment runs and updated payment terms.

Mickey Jones is a business landlord and has a number of businesses in Weymouth including DJ Properties and Zone Fitness.

He is a supplier of Dorset Council and thinks that they are sending the right message to business owners in the area.

“It’s wall to wall misery at the moment and it’s nice that the council have put a positive message out there.

“Through all the panic buying and selfish behaviour, the tide is turning now and people are wondering what they can do to help others. I think this is something businesses can do too.

“If you run a business and are in a position to have some cash reserves, then I think you have a moral obligation to fulfil all of your obligations to your staff and clients, and not just think things are getting tight and abandon your plans. That would be despicable.”

“If you’ve got the funds to do it and you can pay everyone else as quickly as possible, then that money will go through the financial system much quicker and will help other businesses pay their staff.”

Mr Jones added: “No one is going to be immune. Everyone is going to have to share their burden in this.”