AN award-winning law firm has agreed to provide legal advice to Blackburn town centre BID members who are facing challenges as a result of the impact of the coronavirus.

Forbes Solicitors will offer an initial free legal consultation to town centre BID members on matters such as employment law and commercial contract issues.

The initiative, which is titled the “Blackburn BID Coronavirus Support” will provide 400 members with the opportunity to access this expertise.

Emma Swan, head of commercial employment law at Forbes, said: “We don’t need to reiterate that we are living and working through unchartered territory. As well as the public health and economic impact COVID-19 is having on businesses, business owners are grappling with new Government policies being introduced to protect jobs and what it might mean for them and their employees. We can help navigate what’s ahead and would welcome conversations with BID members to understand their unique challenges so we can advise on what their next steps should be.”

Commercial associate John Pickervance said: “As you’d expect, businesses are looking more closely at all of their commercial contracts and the impact of COVID-19. We can review existing contractual arrangements and provide guidance for any businesses facing disputes.”

BID members need to contact Blackburn BID manager Catherine Price on 07860952352 or by emailing catherine.price@newground.co.uk to be given an ‘access code’ to mention when making contact with Forbes. For employment law advice email Trishna.Modessa-Parekh@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call 01772 220215 and for commercial enquires, email john.pickervance@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call 0333 207 1134.