Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry: your clients' stories matter

Accountants were key trusted advisors for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping them navigate a fast-moving world and policies.

Whether this was advising on cashflow management, navigating furlough and other business support initiatives, or helping the self-employed through grant and government support claims. You now have a unique opportunity to help shape the future of business support in Scotland.

The Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry now wants to hear from businesses that faced the storm head-on during the pandemic, whether they survived or not. The COVID-19 Inquiry has asked for assistance from ICAS in reaching out to impacted businesses.

The inquiry’s Let’s Be Heard project has designed a survey exclusively for business owners and operators. It's a chance for them to share their experiences—the highs, lows, and everything in between. How did COVID-19 impact their business? How did they navigate the storm? What support did they receive (or not receive) from public agencies?

Why should accountancy practices get involved?

• Your clients' insights matter: By encouraging your clients to take the survey, you're giving them a voice. Their stories can drive change and influence policies that directly impact businesses like theirs.
• Spotting trends and gaps: The survey isn't just about anecdotes; it's about data. By participating, you contribute to a collective understanding of challenges faced by businesses. Trends and gaps become clearer, helping policymakers make informed decisions.
• Advocacy and empathy: Imagine the impact when your clients see that their struggles matter. By highlighting the survey, you show empathy and advocacy. It's not just about numbers; it's about people.

How can you help?

• Spread the word: Share the survey link—Let’s Be Heard Survey—with your networks. Reach out to clients, former clients and business contacts.
• Encourage participation: The survey takes around 15 minutes. Encourage your clients to take this opportunity to share their experiences. Every response counts.
• Participate yourself: As a business owner yourself and as trusted advisors, it’s important that your views are heard by the inquiry.

 

The survey is open until 31 August 2024.