A consortium comprising HAE EHA (Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association), together with AIF (the Access Industry Forum, the umbrella body for the eleven principal trade bodies in the UK work at height sector), has been awarded funding to improve the hire and work at height sectors’ readiness for a No Deal Brexit on 31st October 2019.
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has asked the thirteen associations to work together to deliver bespoke hire and work at height sector specific ‘No Deal’ Brexit support, based on a funding proposal submitted by the consortium. Businesses throughout the hire and work at height sectors will be invited to a programme of roadshows and webinars that will provide advice on the likely implications of a no deal Brexit. Companies will be further supported through a comprehensive leaflet setting out key information and sources of further guidance.
The grant funding was made available on condition that the support and guidance is accessible to businesses of all sizes and types across the sectors, and not restricted to association members. HAE and AIF are working closely with external partners to deliver the programme and additional details on event locations and timings will be available imminently. Further information on the Business Readiness Fund is available here: gov.uk/brexit-business-grants
Graham Arundell, HAE EHA CEO said: “We have continuously highlighted Brexit preparedness as a vital requirement for hire businesses and suppliers. By working together with fellow associations and with this dedicated additional funding, we will be able to expand our reach and help businesses to navigate these uncertain times.”
Peter Bennett OBE, Managing Director of PASMA and Chair of the AIF, said; “This is a critical time for all UK businesses and it is essential that we work together to ensure that we do all we can, in the most effective and efficient way, to help our members prepare for the uncharted waters ahead”.
