Business regulatory advice and guidance

We recognise that small and medium sized enterprises have limited resources to understand and ensure they comply with requirements across the wide range of regulations which apply to them.

They are also less likely to be connected to other sources of help and education such as trade associations and insurance companies.

Lack of knowledge, understanding and experience in any businesses increases the risk of non compliance and unbudgeted cost.

Getting advice

Regulatory experts from the council are a dependable source of authoritative advice, information and guidance and can support local businesses to:

• Identify and anticipate issues that can impact on a business
• Obtain knowledge and support of how to remedy problems
• Access the right level of support
• Be confident they are meeting their regulatory obligations
• Ensure regulatory compliance in a way that is affordable and proportionate to potential risks in the business.

Support available

Businesses can access

• General information and guidance on our website about running a business
• Pay the first hour's fee for an advisory site meeting chargeable at an hourly rate of  £95. Additional advice and payment can be agreed with your appointed Environmental Health Officer.

Food Businesses can access

• Free advice and guidance on our website
• A documented food safety system for home-based bakers
• Advice and guidance for Mobile food traders 
• A documented food safety management system with additional materials on E. Coli and allergen controls for a fee of £25
• Food Hygiene Pre-Inspection advisory visit by an experienced food officer for a fee of £147.  This meeting provides detailed food hygiene support for your business.  
  • If you need further advisory time/visits, this is chargeable at an hourly rate of £95.