Residents and businesses in York looking for support and advice through the recession can now find it on a dedicated site on City of York Council's website.

The 'One City' pages complement the council's One City initiative and bring together a range of information and advice from the council and other organizations to help individuals and support local businesses during the economic downturn.

New and existing businesses, large or small, can find information and advice on all aspects of running a business, particularly in a time of recession, including managing business debt, business grants, business rates, commercial property to let or buy, trading standards, food safety and standards, contracts and licensing.

For the individual, the Support for You pages contain links to local and national agencies and organisations dealing with a host of issues including budget and debt management, housing solutions, benefits and loans, employment and training advice or energy and money saving tips.

The 'York on a Budget' leaflet, produced by the Citizen's Advice Bureau with funding from City of York Council and Grant Thornton, can also be downloaded. It includes advice about managing money and debts more effectively as well as tips for saving, increasing income, free activities in the city and how to obtain more help and advice.

Bill McCarthy, Chief Executive of City of York Council said: "The council is continuing to work closely with all its partners in the city to support business, boost confidence and support those who are most vulnerable in these difficult economic times.

"While York is better placed than some other cities to respond to the changing economic picture we recognise that many residents will be affected by the economic downturn . Equally we recognise that local businesses and employers will also require support through these difficult times.

"We hope that the One City initiative can offer that support."

Shaun Watts, President of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said: "We welcome the City of York Council taking the initiative to support local businesses at what is, for some, an extremely testing time.  We support the principles behind the initiative and welcome its ambitions to assist businesses in their recovery.

"As a Chamber of Commerce we are already working to help our members get more business, by helping them save money, access new customers, network, train and develop, get information on statutory and legal requirements and take advantage of business opportunities."

Peter Kay, Chair of York Economic Partnership said: "This is exactly what is needed at the present time. So often you have to ask where to go for information or advice on business issues. Usually the answer involves a multitude of sources. To have a single portal provided by City of York Council's website will be a massive help to new and existing businesses alike. It will be a must-have link from your browser. Put it in your 'favourites' now!"

The webpages can be found on the Council's homepage at www.york.gov.uk/onecity/
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