The Motor Ombudsman, the automotive dispute resolution provider, is reinforcing the importance of its COVID-19 business support portal on its website as a key information resource for garages.
Following the recent introduction of coronavirus lockdown restrictions, the dedicated area on TheMotorOmbudsman.org was launched to act as a central hub for businesses to access key guidance and information released by the UK government and automotive industry trade bodies that affects the day-to-day operation of vehicle repairers and retailers.
It forms just one part of a range of communications initiatives that have been implemented during recent weeks by The Motor Ombudsman to help keep both garages and motorists aware of some of the latest changes brought about by COVID-19.
The business support portal covers subjects, such as best practice guidelines for the automotive aftermarket and retail sectors, how to operate a safe workplace and source safety signage in conjunction with a risk assessment, useful links to access financial support, as well as valuable resources on supporting the mental health and personal wellbeing of employees.
In addition, individuals will find a section specific to the current six-month MOT exemption with links to MOT and test centre guidance, which was updated as recently as last month.
This is followed by a short set of ‘coronavirus frequently asked questions (FAQs)’, providing answers on topics that span training courses that are available to staff, and the availability of components, to selling vehicles at a distance, and helping key workers to stay on the move.
Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and managing director at The Motor Ombudsman said: “With many garages in the UK focusing on driving customer footfall and maintaining their revenue streams, keeping up to date with the latest developments from government and the main trade bodies may sometimes prove difficult.
“We therefore wanted to create a single point of reference for businesses that they could consult at a glance.
“With the current situation continuing to evolve on a weekly basis in line with the latest measures to help stem the transmission of the coronavirus, we will certainly be continuing to keep a close eye on any future announcements so that we can keep garages updated accordingly with any information where there could be a direct impact.”

The Motor Ombudsman has also added a new range of COVID-19 safety display products to its online code shop to inform staff and customers about the necessary precautions that need to be taken when interacting with others.
The line-up includes items, such as adhesive floor stickers to encourage social distancing, sneeze guards to help prevent the transmission of germs between staff who sit close to one another, and signage outlining best practice (e.g. for handwashing) to display in customer-facing or back office areas.
To access The Motor Ombudsman’s COVID-19 business support page, select ‘more details’ below.
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