Step 3: Who to speak to next

• Speak to your staff who are from the EU to find out about their plans.  Remember that any staff who were in the country before 31 December 2020, can apply for Settled or Pre-Settled status, ensuring that any temporary, seasonal or permanent staff can stay on without needing to make an application under the new Points Based System.
  
• If you intend to recruit new staff from the EU or outside the EU, familiarise yourself now with the requirements of the new Points Based System and make an application to become a licenced sponsor. Alternatively, speak with your labour provider to find out what arrangements they have in place.
  
• If you are in a supply contract, speak to your buyer.  If they export, what arrangements do they have in place?  What guarantees can they offer you?  Are you liable for any extra cost if there is disruption or if one partner fails to meet their obligations?
  
• If you have any other buyers, discuss financial risks.  Consider asking for payment at the point of order or delivery.
• Speak with suppliers to find out about their arrangements if supplies are disrupted by border delays or other issues.  Have they made contingency arrangements, and can they give you assurances?  If not, can you make contingency arrangements elsewhere?  Can you lock in a price?  Have your suppliers got the necessary certifications in place? Will there be any changes to the supply chain required to meet new UK rules of origin requirements? (More information on rules of origin is online here)
  
  
• Speak to your vet about veterinary medical supplies and routinely used products, to ensure they will be available in time.
• Speak to your accountant or a financial adviser about financial modelling and cashflow planning.
  
• Speak with your bank manager if you believe you may require an overdraft extension or other finance to give you a cushion.
• If you are an exporter or importer, speak to your local chamber of commerce - they are experienced in international trade and can help guide you. You may also be able to apply for an HMRC grant to assist with recruitment, training and IT improvements if your business is required to complete customs declarations. More information is online here.