Hartlepool firm among first in UK to receive new government coronavirus loan to survive

HTES (Northern) which provides training and assessment services to the engineering, petrochemical and construction sectors, has received support worth £60,000 from the new Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).

It has safeguarded 15 jobs and enabled the business to continue operating despite seeing a drop in sales by 75% because of the global crisis.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has welcomed the loans and urged businesses in the area to contact a business support line he has established for advice and help.

Brian Goodlad, Director of HTES (Northern), said: “We have seen a significant drop in sales following the start of the coronavirus outbreak.

“The CBILS support provided by Business Enterprise Fund provides a boost to our cashflow which ensures certainty and stability in very difficult circumstances.

“It is an important lifeline that will help us survive and safeguard 15 full and part-time jobs.”

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has also confirmed more than £90 million of loans have been approved to nearly 1,000 small and medium sized firms since the scheme launched last week.

Mayor Houchen said: “Businesses across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool are facing unprecedented uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic, but I am pleased that these emergency loans are starting to arrive to businesses in my region.

“The government has really stepped up to the plate when it comes to support for small and medium sized businesses. This is a really difficult time for everyone and people are understandably concerned, but the support is available to help firms get through this pandemic with as minimal impact as possible.

“I am doing everything I can to help businesses in my region protect jobs and sort out any cash flow problems caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“I would urge any business in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool to get in touch with my business support helpline on 01642 662777 to find out what support that can qualify for.”

The help line is available 24 hours a day for businesses, employers and the self-employed.

Alternatively, email [email protected]

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