Message from HM Lord-Lieutenant to all business organisations in South Yorkshire

Dear Business Leader,

As Her Majesty’s Personal Representative in the County, I wanted to contact the business leaders in South Yorkshire at this extraordinarily challenging time.

Many in the business and commercial sector are responding to the crisis now affecting so many of our citizens in extraordinary ways, showing innovation, collaboration, courage and selflessness. There are innumerable examples of organisations going the extra mile, some even adapting their business models, to support the community and our public sector, to keep things moving and to get the job done. This is one of the real positives coming out of this crisis.

Sadly, I know that many businesses have been closed and their staff furloughed; others are struggling to keep things going and to keep their own organisation alive. I hope this is not the case with you, but if you are experiencing difficulties, I do hope you have been able to benefit from the many Government initiatives, which are available, to see you through this crisis.

I am writing this from the comfort of my own home, where sadly due to my age, I am required, understandably, to self-isolate. This is frustrating, since it prevents me from meeting you personally to discuss your particular situation, but I would like to understand any issues affecting your organisation currently, so please let my office know and include your address and contact details and either I or one of my Deputies will try to speak with you. The sheer number of businesses involved means it may not be possible to speak with every one of you, but at least I will know what you are doing, for which I repeat my grateful thanks.

In the meantime, I send my best wishes to you, your work colleagues and your families. Stay safe.
Andrew J Coombe
HM Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire

Watch the recorded message from the HM Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire