Local businesses: Think you’re ready for emergencies? Think again!

Businesses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) are being advised to ‘think again’ about how prepared they are for possible emergencies like cyber attacks and severe weather which can disrupt their supply chains, IT and more.

The call for businesses to re-think their preparedness is being issued by the Local Resilience Forum (LRF) to coincide with Business Continuity and Resilience Awareness Week which runs from 18 – 22 May. 

Local businesses are being encouraged to ‘think again’ about:

  • Their key risks, including modern threats like cyber attacks and disinformation
  • Creating and testing a bespoke Business Continuity Plan to make sure they’re ready for the unexpected
  • Increased incidents of severe weather
  • External shocks that may cause supplier failures or other issues
  • Making sure everyone knows what to do and who to contact in an emergency

Sonal Devani, Chair of the LRF’s Business Continuity Group, said: “In a fast-changing world, it’s more important than ever for businesses across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to ‘think again’ about emerging risks and be prepared. 

“The reality is that today’s businesses are dealing with new and emerging threats that are very different to the ‘traditional emergencies’ of the past. 

“Business Continuity Week is a perfect opportunity for businesses to review their Business Continuity Plans and, if necessary, put new steps in place.  Being proactive rather than reactive will help them respond quicker and recover faster in the event of an incident.” 

Our Risk Ready Businesses resources include free, industry-led webinars, tools and information to boost business resilience, as well as a handy template to create your own Business Continuity Plan.

Sonal Devani is Corporate Risk Management and Business Continuity Manager at Leicester City Council.

Business Continuity and Resilience Awareness Week and the ‘Think again’ campaign are run by The Business Continuity Institute.