Businesses in Halton are being offered free expert advice to help them overcome pressures created by the ongoing global slowdown.

The impartial service is being made available via a series of one-to-one business "surgeries" being hosted from September at The Heath Business and Technical Park in Runcorn.

The sessions, which will be by appointment only, will offer practical support on topics such as cash flow, accessing finance from the private and public sectors, and the legal issues involved in tackling slow or non-payment by customers.

The initiative is being launched by SOG Ltd, the owner and manager of The Heath, in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses, NatWest bank and leading international law firm Irwin Mitchell. It is also supported by Halton Borough Council.

SOG Ltd Marketing Director John Lewis said: "The Heath Business and Technical Park has always taken a proactive approach to generating and encouraging business in Halton. The launch of free one-to-one surgeries is designed to focus on aspects of the current global slowdown that are of critical importance to the local business community. All Halton-based businesses are eligible to take part."

Individual surgeries will be hosted by Chris Burgess, a long-standing business consultant who has been working for himself since 1969 and has also served as a mentor for the Prince's Trust.

He explained: "In the present economic climate there's a need for clear, pragmatic advice. The surgeries are designed to help people in business to stay in business."

Chris added: "A lot of companies across the country have been forced to restructure - for example by cutting staff or reducing working hours. We're trying to help companies in the Halton area get through the present situation by making them more sustainable and helping them to thrive and grow."

Although Chris will handle the initial surgeries, he will be able to refer businesses to other experts if their queries require more specialist advice.

Businesses wishing to take advantage of the free one-to-one surgeries can make an appointment via a dedicated phone number - 01928 511441 - which goes live on September 1, or by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The initial sessions are due to take place during early September.