A toolkit to help SMEs get back on their feet as they navigate the uncertainty created by coronavirus has been launched by Barlcays.

The ‘Barclays Back to Business’ programme has been designed in partnership with the Cambridge Judge Business School and is open to all UK SMEs, in addition to the bank’s one million small business customers.

With 65 per cent of businesses reporting that they will change their business practises in response to coronavirus, the bank hopes that the programme will provide SMEs with the support they need to adapt.

The toolkit has been piloted with 100 businesses from different sectors over the last few weeks ahead of a full trial launch on June 22, with everyone from farmers to hairdressers trialling the programme.

The kit is designed to help business owners assess the overall health of their enterprise, and create a tailored resilience plan for challenging periods. It is packed with practical tools including a working capital calculator, cash flow forecasts, and guidance on managing supply chain relationships.

Christoph Loch, Director of Cambridge Judge Business School, said: “Many entrepreneurs and businesses will be looking for new opportunities during this time, and we know they’ll be asking themselves what their strategy should be as they look to adapt to best serve their customers. During the online programme, we’ll lead businesses through that thinking, stepping away from the day to day operations to look at the opportunities and a longer term strategy with the help of our business toolkit.”

Hannah Bernard, Head of Barclays Business Banking, said: “We’re proud to provide a platform for business owners to hone their skills and access vital resources as businesses across the country continue to be impacted by coronavirus. We stand behind UK businesses and are always looking for new ways to provide help and support to entrepreneurs, business owners and sole traders across the country.”

Businesses can find out more about the Back to Business toolkit and sign up at: www.barclays.co.uk/business-banking/sectors/entrepreneurs/back-to-business-programme/