Business continuity

Does your business need a plan?

In the event of a disruptive incident lasting, would your business be able to cope without a plan?

If not, your business could need a business continuity plan (BCP) which will help you return to ‘business as usual’ as quickly as possible.  

Hammersmith & Fulham Council can assist local businesses and voluntary agencies to plan for business interruptions, largely focusing on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

We can:

• Review contingency, crisis management and business continuity plans for businesses.
• Assist in the testing and exercising of plans.
• Additionally, events with residents and business owners can be organised to highlight ways to make their organisations more able to cope with interruptions.

To find out more about our business continuity services for businesses, contact:

• Leo Kelly, Business Continuity Manager, on 07769 200116, or via email on leo.kelly@lbhf.gov.uk

For general business advice and support please visit Business support and advice.

How to prepare your business

1. Identify the potential risks to your business by completing a business continuity self assessment and plan for these risks accordingly. 10-minute Business Continuity self assessment (pdf)
2. Document your emergency contacts who can respond during an incident.
3. Ensure that your business insurance policy is up to date.
4. Visit London.Gov for guidance and templates to help you prepare your business. 

What are the benefits of having a business continuity plan?

• It can lower the cost of your business insurance.
• A robust BCP can stop your business from failing.
• Undertaking Business Impact and Risk Assessments can identify other business efficiencies.

The following websites provide more general information:

• H&F Business Connects
• Business Continuity Institute (BCI)
• Continuity Central
• The SASIG | Security Awareness Special Interest Group |
• London Resilience Partnership 
• Cabinet Office - Preparing for Emergencies 

Why do we need business continuity at H&F?

Local authorities in London face a number of operational challenges, such as: flooding, fires, pandemics, public disorder and terrorism.

All these threats could affect your business and cause an interruption. As a result, it is important to prepare accordingly.