Incorporating such words has meant huge change and challenge for SMEs whilst we recover from the past , and plan for the future having ( in many cases ) experienced the most difficult of trading periods in living memory . That said , with businesses changing and adapting operating practices and showing true entrepreneurial spirit , we must recognise that several SMEs have experienced growth .

Who could have seen this coming ? If someone had said to me , ‘ Chris , you ’ re going to be appointed as the Growth Hub Manager

and during your first year you will deliver business support services at the height of a global health and economic crisis ’ I would have thought they ’ d gone mad . I can honestly say it has been hugely challenging and I have been personally and professionally stretched , HOWEVER , it has been the most rewarding year of my professional career to date and it ’ s a feeling shared by the entire Growth Hub team .

We are delighted to present this Impact Report for the Swindon and Wilshire area that seeks to document the trading environment

during this last financial year , to explore the extreme challenges businesses have faced and showcase the extraordinary resilience and adaptability the local business community has demonstrated .

The report also aims to illustrate the contribution the Growth Hub has made , supporting businesses through difficult times , together with the service ’ s evolution from a digital support portal , to a full , direct delivery business support service , offering a plethora of information , advice , guidance , and business support

programmes . We would like to thank each and every business that has interacted with us over the last year . Their contributions have been invaluable in terms of shaping the ongoing support we offer but also to afford us a voice with central Government to provide intelligent and meaningful feedback around the requirements for SMEs as we move from response to recovery .

Chris Stevens SWLEP Growth Hub Manager