Here for you, even if the government isn’t

I’ll be honest, there wasn’t a great deal to get excited about in last week’s summer statement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected every part of our lives and no industry has been untouched, but it would have been good for the automotive industry to receive some direct support considering the important part we play in the country’s economy. It should be said also that our industry (and IMI’s members) has been at the frontline working throughout the crisis. 

Any help for apprentices is welcomed, though, so the £2,000 incentive for businesses to hire young apprentices is good news. So too the introduction of the bonus scheme that will see payments of £1,500 for businesses that hire apprentices aged 25 and over.

I’m not sure money off meals and the other announcements really help, but the IMI will continue to push those in power to do more. Automotive is a pillar of the UK’s economic prosperity, so the more the government can do to help and support, the faster we will recover from the pandemic. It was a disappointment that no scrappage scheme was introduced. 

Whatever, we’ll carry on supporting our members. We’ve already delivered huge amounts of advice on our dedicated COVID-19 page as well as a series of digital events, covering topics from training to cashflow, and there’s also a host of free courses to help you stay up to date even through these challenging times. These are invaluable resources, so please make use of them. We’ll add to them regularly.

Most importantly, we’re always here for you, so if you have any questions that you need answering or want to discuss how the IMI can help you, don’t hesitate to get in touch on +44 (0)1992 519025, or send emails to hello@theimi.org.uk.

With my very best wishes,

Steve