The HVCA has published the first in a series of Better Business Guides designed to provide its members with the expert advice and guidance they will require to continue to operate profitably in the months ahead.

This first Better Business Guide offers general advice on facing up to recession, and outlines a range of business services that are available to all Association members at preferential rates.

Later guides – to be published over the next few weeks – will provide in-depth advice on core commercial and contractual, human resources and training funding issues, as well as a reminder of the broad range of services available from other parts of the HVCA Group.

“Whatever the long-term prospects for the UK economy as a whole, it is now clear that significant challenges lie just around the corner – and that, for all too many firms in the sector, survival will become the over-riding priority,” commented HVCA president Gareth Vaughan.

Mr Vaughan added that, in such challenging times, membership of a reputable and well-resourced trade association becomes more important, and more valuable, than ever.

“I also believe that the professional support that is available to member companies can, when things get really tough, often spell the difference between success and failure.

“In short – the message to our members is that we are here to help, in any way we can.”