West Lindsey District Council is encouraging people to get behind local businesses in the district and support them where possible.

The Council is launching its ‘Think Local’ campaign to raise awareness and support those local businesses across the district that are open for business.

Covid-19 has had a huge impact on businesses nationally as many had to close due to the current lockdown. Whilst the government’s advice of only going out for essential journeys and following social distancing rules still apply, the Council is looking at ways everyone can play their part in supporting local businesses.

More than £14million has already been issued in the last few weeks in the form of business grants to local businesses – which was allocated by Central Government.

Council staff have also worked hard to understand new legislations to ensure how businesses are able to continue to offer much needed services to residents.

Many businesses have been able to continue to operate to ensure residents are able to access the essentials. Others have been able to adapt and are able to continue to trade but in a different capacity. For examples restaurants and cafes are now offering takeaway food to meet demand and still be able to offer a service to local traders.

Conservative Leader of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr Giles, McNeill said:

“We want to encourage and support those businesses who are able to continue to operate safely in a bid to support our local economy.

“Our Think Local campaign is aimed at raising awareness of what is available in local communities by showcasing businesses that are open, what they are doing and encourage people to consider using them for their essentials. This can be anything from community shops, farms selling produce and newly created takeaway services.

“It is incredibly important that we utilise our local businesses who will need our support more than ever. This will support the local economy and help our communities to prosper. Changing our shopping habits is more than just a trend, it’s a lifestyle choice and something we can do together.”

Jo Parsons runs the Salutation Inn, Nettleton and in response to the COVID-19 lockdown, she has set up a community shop in her pub selling essential items to support those in need.

She has backed the Council’s campaign and is urging local people to do what they can to support local businesses where possible within the governments guidelines. Jo said:

“We sell items at cost and do not make a profit. The shop operates on a call and collect service with designated collection times to ensure social distancing.”

Jo is also supporting local businesses in the area and have teamed up with their local veg supplier and butcher. You can order from the Salutation Inn and then boxes are made up and can be picked up or delivered on a weekly basis.

In addition to this the pub is also operating a call and collect takeaway service. The menu changes weekly and can be viewed on their Facebook page or can be emailed upon request. If you fancy a treat, you can also pre-order real ale, which would give you the real pub feel.  Delivery is available for Nettleton residents only. This may change so keep an eye on their Facebook page for regular updates.

The Salutation Inn is part of the community of Nettleton and they act as a hub for the Nettleton Neighbours volunteer group. The group was set up on Facebook to support anyone during COVID-19. Whether you need help picking up your prescriptions or shopping, help is available when you need it. Visit their Facebook group to find out more.

The Council is compiling a list of businesses across the district who are open for business on its website. If you are a business still operating in the district then please let the Council know by filling out this online form (click here). If you are open and trading to the public businesses must be adhering to social distancing guidelines.

The Council will also be using its social media accounts to feature case studies from around the district to raise awareness of what is available.

Business advice and support is available for any business via Business Lincolnshire’s COVID-19 support phone line. Advisors are available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Call 01522 782189. You can also visit their business support hub online at www.businesslincolnshire.com.