Expect the unexpected

Even the best laid plans can be thrown into chaos when your business is hit with the unexpected. But a missed deadline, a late payment or having a supplier let you down need not spell disaster – as long as you are properly prepared. Contingency planning is about being ready to react and keep things going when things don’t go exactly as you had hoped.

We have plenty of information and advice to help you decide what to do in a crisis and how to get ready for anything you may come up against in the future – from flooding, to failing IT systems, to extreme weather.

Business Link Northwest is your free to use, independent business support and information service. If you would like to speak to one of our business advisers, call us now on 0845 00 66 888 or use our contact us form.

Making a plan

There are many reasons why you need to plan for possible crises and it is essential to have a good strategy. Our guide will tell you all you need to know so you can plan how you will deal with an emergency.

At risk of flooding?
Cumbrian businesses suffered during the severe floods in late 2009 and struggled to recover in the aftermath. Our section on dealing with floods has guidance on how to prepare for a future crisis.

Risk assessment

What risks does your business face? Use our business continuity and risk assessment interactive tool to work out your position.

Coping in a crisis
Planning for the unexpected is essential for any successful business. Use our guide to crisis management and business continuity planning to help minimise the impact of a crisis on your business - from flood and fire to illness and IT failure.

Minimising the impact of a crisis

When you think you know which problems are likely to hit, then you need to make sure you’re ready for them. Minimise the potential impact of crises with help from our guide.

Weather watch
Many experts warn that the effects of climate change will bring more extreme weather conditions – and with it more potential for unexpected problems for businesses.

See our coping with extreme weather section for advice and information about allowing employees time off, enabling people to work from home and keeping your business moving along.

Insurance

An essential part of contingency planning is making sure you have the right insurance. See our guides to help you choose the right insurance to protect against losses.

IT failure
Many businesses are becoming increasingly dependent on IT systems for the day-to-day operations – making it essential to have a contingency plan in place.

See our guide to surviving an IT crisis and learn what your plan should include and how to go about putting it together.

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Expect the unexpected