As the coronavirus pandemic continues, the Government has said it will do whatever it takes to win the fight against Covid-19. In addition to serious implications for people’s health (disproportionately affecting the BAME community) and the healthcare services, coronavirus (COVID-19) is having a significant impact on businesses.
Saira Hussain, born in Burnley, a Huddersfield University Graduate, Co-founder of HAD & CO Property Consultants Ltd (based in Lancashire) has been in ‘conversation’ along with other business representatives with Nadhim Zahawi MP, Minister for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy, Dr Yvone Thompson CBE (African Caribbean Business Network) and Miss Paulete Simpson (responsibility for Corporate Affairs for The Jamaica National Group in the United Kingdom (UK). Discussing what support we can draw on to ensure our businesses are protected with the investment they need and to protect jobs in the BAME Community that is vital to the UK’s economy.
During the discussions the Minister for Business explained the business support options for the community – including who is eligible, steps to apply and how it could benefit business and discussed the Government’s commitment to the economic security of BAME businesses. He also explaiened how we business owners can help to spread the word and promote government support within our communities so no business misses out.
Saira is a construction ambassador with CITB and director of a number of Architecture, planning and property practices throughout the North West including Lancashire and Manchester said ‘’It has been an extremely difficult time for business owners, we have had a sharp fall in revenue due to projects coming to a halt, managing staff who are working from home is not the easiest of tasks as we usually have a team of people working on projects at any one time, many issues were tackled and the Minister was confident, concise and comfortable with all the questions thrown his way.’’
Nadhim Zahawi MP said the following:
“I know this is a very difficult time for BAME communities on many levels – not least paying a disproportionate price in the fight against Coronavirus. I appreciate you taking the time to join to speak about the difficulties Covid-19 is creating for BAME-run businesses. I really hope that the session was useful in helping you understand how we, as a government, can help you overcome the challenges you are facing. As I mentioned during the session, there are several useful links I would encourage you to click on, for more information about the schemes on offer. I would also encourage you to share these widely within your communities – as companies such as yours will be absolutely critical to the UK’s economic recovery.”
Saira who has recently given birth to her first child, has recently been nominated as an inspirational business woman in STEM. Women entrepreneurs are underrepresented in the most productive sectors of the UK economy, especially Architecture, Engineering and Construction. As it stands, only 24% of UK STEM roles are held by women and the country has the lowest percentage of female engineers in Europe. The showcase in evening in London has currently been postposed.
