Rising inflation, growing export costs and ever-increasing energy prices are placing small and medium sized enterprises under unprecedented pressures.

And for many, this winter could be the crunch point as further increases in gas and electricity prices coupled with rising interest rates are expected.

That is why today, Newsquest's weekly newspapers in Hampshire, in partnership with NatWest are launching a new campaign aimed at supporting local SMEs through the cost-of-living crisis.

Over the next six weeks we will be delivering a series of events and editorials bringing together leading experts from NatWest to provide insights and help that could save your business money.

We’ll also be hearing from key stakeholders and businesses as they steer through the months ahead. As part the campaign, businesses can also sign-up for additional expert support led by Newsquest.

The Business Support initiative is offering free marketing advice and support for up to 20 qualifying businesses at a time when they need it most.

The first 20 qualifying businesses will receive:

• A free website and social media health check worth £85

• Access to specialist webinars covering all the essential elements of digital marketing

• Entry into a prize draw to win £700 marketing spend into Newsquest Dorset and Hampshire titles. *T&Cs apply.

Tracy Hayden, advertising director, said: “SMEs are incredibly important to the UK and are often seen as the backbone of any healthy economy.

"Whether a cottage industry in a semi-rural area or a tech start up in a city centre, SMEs provide the economy with a healthy supply of new skills and concepts.

“We have also seen them be incredibly adept at change, never more evident than during the pandemic.

"However, these hardworking and resilient businesses are once again facing unprecedented challenges, which is why we have joined forces with NatWest to launch a campaign, which will provide support and help to those that need it most.”

Paul Edwards, chair of the NatWest south west board, said: “This is an important campaign that we have joined forces with Newsquest to launch.

"We know how challenging businesses are finding the current inflationary pressures, with many still feeling the effects of having navigated Covid and successive lockdowns as well.

“By joining together our campaign will provide advice and support to businesses helping them to deliver short and long-term measures that could help reduce their costs.

"Our purpose as a bank is to champion potential, helping people, families and businesses to thrive, and that purpose has never more important than now.”

As part of the scheme, Newsquest will also award two of the participating businesses £700 marketing spend to be used online and in print. The winner will be notified by email before November 1, 2022.

Businesses who wish to apply for the Business Support campaign will need to meet the following criteria:

• The business address must be registered in Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, Somerset or Cornwall

• Have an operating website and social media account(s)

• 10+ employees

The closing date for applications is October 21, 2022 and applying could not be easier. Simply register your details at https://forms.office.com/r/iXcAC0RWTB