BUSINESSES in Minehead are being given a helping hand, thanks to the launch of a new grant scheme.

The scheme, the brainchild of the Minehead Vision Group, is aimed at building the resilience of customerfocused businesses.

Grants of up to £300 will be available and will be awarded for activity demonstrating how it is making the business more resilient.

Anything that will enhance what a business offers can be covered; for example, new marketing materials, equipment to support new business activity or redecoration to enhance the look of premises.

A grant could also be used to buy equipment to make a business more secure from external influences such as flooding or robbery.

Graham Sizer, chair of Minehead Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is another welcome scheme which will bring benefit to Minehead businesses.

“The aim is to keep the grant as flexible as possible whilst also making sure that funds are used to bring tangible benefits to our local business community.”

To qualify for the grant scheme, businesses must have been engaged in retail or a customer-focused activity, with premises located in Minehead or Alcombe, for over a year.

They must also employ no more than ten full-time or full-time equivalent employees.

Chair of the Minehead Vision Group, Cllr Mandy Chillcott, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to provide this support for businesses in Minehead.

“The Vision Group has been able to make the grant available through the allocation of Seaside Strategy Funding.

West Somerset Council is also offering both financial and administrative support for the scheme.”

Businesses interested in applying can read the full criteria and details at www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/ mineheadresiliencegrant.

Applications should be made as early as possible as the grant is subject to availability and funding.

Applications will be considered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.