Contract for the Provision of the Staffordshire Business Helpline Service

Staffordshire County Council is issuing a tender on behalf of the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub, and in conjunction with City of Stoke-on-Trent Council, for the ongoing operation of a business support helpline service which is the core of the Stoke on Trent & Staffordshire Growth Hub.

The helpline is underpinned by four principles:

 Any business calling the single point of contact should be able to obtain appropriate help in the minimum number of contacts/referrals

 The helpline will be manned by SFEDI qualified business advisors (or equivalent) who understand the purpose of Growth Hubs and have the necessary experience and capability to make accurate referrals.

 Businesses should be encouraged to meet with a Business Advisor to take advantage of the opportunity that a diagnostic provides to fully explore any and all opportunities for growth or growth enhancement.

 Where appropriate, businesses should be encouraged to self-help via the most cost-effective channels, such as internet sites www.stokestaffsgrowthhub.co.uk or www.gov.uk

These principles have been reflected in service delivery by seeking to answer questions immediately where possible, and by following up any referrals by contacting the enquirer to ensure that the referral agency has responded.

Please refer to the specification for the full description and requirement.