'Buy Local' online service aims to connect Hartlepool customers and businesses during lockdown

Buy Local Tees Valley is designed to connect people with businesses and local tradespeople across the region that are still open or operating in the lockdown.

Mayor Houchen said: “The idea is that, if people know which local businesses are trading, we can give them a boost by highlighting their availability to the public.

“This means people will know what is available in their communities and they will hopefully buy local, which in turn will protect local jobs and services.”

The site available through the Tees Valley Combined Authority website is updated regularly with a list of businesses and tradespeople who are open or operating.

It is broken down into categories for Retail, Food Suppliers, Accommodation, Property Services, Getting Around, and Professional Services and covers the five regional local authority areas including Hartlepool.

Customers can search for those in their area and businesses or services wishing to be added can find out find out more information.

Meanwhile, Mr Houchen has welcomed an announcement of a new 100% government backed loan scheme for small business.

Firms can apply to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000 in the Bounce Back loan scheme to help small businesses get cash they need to survive more quickly.

The loans are interest free for the first 12 months.

Mr Houchen said the announcement was ‘hugely welcome adding: “The Chancellor has made clear the application process for the new scheme will be a quick and straight forward process and involve no red tape or a viability test.

“This once again shows that government is listening and doing everything it can to make sure businesses are protected. I know there are so many small businesses in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool who will welcome this.​​

“I will continue to do everything I can to support businesses in the Tees Valley.”

Employees and emploers seeking government support can also contact the dedicated Tees Valley Business Support Helpline to find out the latest official advice by calling (01642) 662777 or email: [email protected]

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