Local MP Seema Malhotra has called for more support for small businesses to develop their digital profile following feedback from local businesses attending the Feltham and Heston Google Digital Garage training day last Friday.
The event organised by the Feltham and Heston MP was held on 17th February 2023 at Hounslow House and saw almost 100 attendees, including local restaurants, salons and sports businesses, as well as community organisations.
The event offered free training sessions, 1:1 mentoring with digital skills trainers, and peer-to-peer networking.
It ran alongside Hounslow Council’s first Hounslow Gets Digital day. Hounslow Gets Digital brought together local partners and digital service providers with Hounslow Council and included advice on connectivity, cyber security and digital skills.
Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council, spoke at the day’s opening session about Hounslow’s support for businesses and the Digital Inclusion commitment:
“Businesses across the country are facing real challenges and our borough isn’t immune from them. We want to see our communities connected so no one is left behind.”
Seema Malhotra, Labour and Co-operative MP for Feltham and Heston, said:
“As businesses across the UK are adapting to grow their online presence, making sure our local businesses are keeping up is more important than ever. As we deal with the pressures of today, we need to make sure that the time and skills necessary to prepare for tomorrow aren’t forgotten.”
“This was a fantastic day that showed there is so much accessible insight that small businesses can learn about online tools that can make a huge impact on getting their business known in their target area or with their target audience.”