Growth Hubs across the West Midlands are working together to encourage businesses to access free advice to Check, Change and Go following the end of the transition period and the UK’s exit from the EU.

A new website has been launched to provide impartial information to help businesses stay informed about the changes that affect them and take advantage of new opportunities arising from the new rules which came into force from January 1.

Growth Hubs in Coventry and Warwickshire, Greater Birmingham and Solihull, the Black Country, Worcestershire Business Central, Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and Marches have joined forces to help businesses throughout the region understand the key areas of change and the challenges arising from the UK’s new trading status.

The website at www.wmgrowthhubs-eusupport.co.uk provides information on the local and national business support that is available for SMEs to find the help they need.

There is also information on events and workshops that are to be held to guide businesses through the maze of changes and maximise the new opportunities including Going for Global Growth on Tuesday, January 26, which will bring together a panel of international trade experts to offer advice and answer questions.

The online event is being run from 2pm-3.30pm by The Export Academy from the Department for International Trade in collaboration with the West Midlands Growth Hubs and the West Midlands Chambers of Commerce.

There is also the opportunity to complete an EU Transition Support Questionnaire to request specialist support needed by your business.

Kevin Aisbitt, Worcestershire Business Central Manager, said: “By exiting the EU Customs Union and Single Market the UK is now an independent trading nation and businesses need to be aware of these new rules. This means we no longer have tariffs and quotas with the EU. Businesses need support as we transition to this new market in the UK.

“Worcestershire Business Central are collaborating with the other Growth Hubs throughout the West Midlands, combining knowledge to create a valuable resource for our local businesses. We now have a team of EU Exit Specialists who can point business and staff in the right direction for those decisions that need to be made to secure long term success.”