As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, small businesses are facing huge challenges to continue to survive.

To help them, Business in the Community is running a series of free small business support programmes in three locations across the UK, with Newport chosen as the only site in Wales.

BITC was set up nearly 40 years ago by the Prince of Wales. Hundreds of businesses of all sizes are now members, all connected by the conviction their success is linked to society’s prosperity.

Key issues facing small businesses during the pandemic include a drop in sales, cash flow issues, staff retention and sustaining the supply chain.

BITC Cymru is running a series of three free SME Support webinars aimed at businesses in the city which employ up to 250 people.

A session focusing on finance and funding took place on February 11, supported by Nat West Business, the Development Bank of Wales and Business Wales.

The next webinar takes place on March 11 from 11.30am-12.30pm and will focus on HR and wellbeing. Businesses can register for the event at register.gotowebinar.com/register/8616688320631234827

The final support session will look at adopting new business models and takes place on March 23, from 2pm-3pm. Registration for the webinar is at register.gotowebinar.com/register/2647508962667894795

Businesses can stay in touch with the Newport small business support programme by following @BITCCymru on Twitter.

The other programmes are taking place in Aberdeen and Blackpool.