A FIGHTBACK Fund is today launched by the Birmingham Mail to give traders who had their shops smashed by rioting thugs the chance to get much needed help.
Traders who had their stock stolen, windows shattered and livelihoods put in doubt can claim a share of £10,000.
We want the money to go directly to the small traders who need it most – those whose business has been put in doubt because they are having to write off thousands of pounds worth of stock and repairs.
The Birmingham Mail has teamed up with The Carphone Warehouse, Geek Squad and Best Buy to offer small retailers and traders in the Birmingham area the chance to benefit from a share of £10,000 to help in the recovery of their business.
This fund can be used to repair damage done, replace broken windows/doors etc, install new CCTV or even to re-stock shelves that would otherwise go unstocked.
Applications must be received by August 30. A number of Carphone Warehouse stores were damaged or looted across the UK during the riots.
While The Carphone Warehouse can clear up their stores, they appreciate that smaller independent sole traders may be struggling to get back on their feet.
The company, along with sister firm Best Buy, want to help clean up the streets and are backing our campaign with a bursary of £10,000.
As well as financial support, The Carphone Warehouse and Best Buy will also support businesses with free technical help from its IT support business Geek Squad.
Their technical experts will visit shops to give owners help with everything from setting up new laptops and wi-fi networks, to backing up data and re-connecting emails.
Birmingham Mail editor David Brookes said: “We are delighted to be working with The Carphone Warehouse on this initiative and I would urge any shopkeepers in urgent need of help to apply quickly.”
Charles Dunstone, founder of The Carphone Warehouse, said: “Having once struggled to get a business up and running myself, I know the challenges that small businesses face.
“With many still feeling the effects of the economic downturn, the recent riots have been a double-blow.
“Ultimately, we, at The Carphone Warehouse, and Best Buy will repair the damage to our own stores because we have the resources to do so but clearly many small businesses do not.
"It’s been heartening to see the community come together to support local businesses with pride.
“I hope our pledge to support the Birmingham Mail’s campaign to fight back will bring help to those that need it most.”
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