When the worst of the snow hit the East Midlands, unlike some other core services, EMB Ltd kept the local Business Link service operational throughout. Clients concerned about whether the adverse weather would affect their appointments with Business advisers were reassured that as far as possible, it was business as usual and that local Business advisers were doing all they could to get out and see clients.

Tina Trundle, from East Midlands based business Tinderbox Sports Horses was one of the clients who contacted Business Link and was informed that due to contingency planning, the regional Business Link service - although experiencing the same problems as the rest of the country - had a framework in place to effectively deal with such situations.

"As I was on the phone to Business Link, I saw my adviser making his way through the gate," explains Tina.  "Following a swift change into more sturdy boots and waterproofs he then managed to negotiate the 600 metres of snow-covered ground to get to the stables."

 Following a full tour of the buildings - including the outside snow-covered paddocks and loose boxes, both client and Business Link adviser settled down to a much needed hot cup of tea to review the completed business plan. 

Tina continues, "Business Link pulled out all the stops to keep my appointment as they knew how important my imminent presentation was to my local bank. During the meeting with my adviser, the snow continued to fall but he didn't rush off, he took the time to make sure that I had everything in place to be confident about the next stage of developing my business."'  

A vital part of the business plan was the need for detailed financial forecasts which had been prepared thanks to a Business Review. "We had time to look at these and discuss them in more detail," explains Tina. "My adviser also reviewed the next steps and the future direction of the business, with training and marketing issues being seen as high priorities in my future development.  This gave me a clear idea of what to do next."

With everything covered as planned, Tina's adviser was also able to help her husband with a couple of questions about his own business which had been halted due to the snowfall. "Then my intrepid adviser trekked back into the elements," added Tina. "I can't thank Business Link enough - its great to know that the support really is there… as and when you need it."