Help is on hand for Diss businesses. The Diss Business Forum AGM saw concerns aired about trading in Diss, especially with the recent closure of six independent businessess.

To keep our status as the new 'Gateway', we need to look at what will keep the traders who keep the customers coming.

While some issues are down to the powers that be, there is good news of hands-on assistance that is available right now. Think outside the box, and you may find the results a happy surprise.

Did you know that Norfolk Adult Education is giving free courses on essential skills training in maths and English?

While on the face of it, traders might think this is irrelevant. Think again!

A service industry relies on goodwill for new and repeat business.

Training staff to offer a more professional product and service – from greeting the customer and speaking knowledgably to writing up the ticket correctly – will lead to an increase in productivity and an increase in sales.

And it's free! Courses can be run at convenient times for you. To find out more, contact workplace development officer Meg Matthews, 01603 306558.

Many small businesses, even those with one staff member, don't realise they have compliance issues that could cost them dear.

Paramount Personnel and HR Services in Diss recognise this problem. As a small business itself, PPS understands your needs and the lack of help in this area and has devised a human resources pack specifically for you, at a one-off cost of just £250.

I say 'just' and you are thinking, crikey, that's not just small change; but the fact is, if you aren't in compliance it could cost you thousands. Food for thought? Find out more from Marion James, 01379 650296.

Another initiative aimed right at independent traders is RENS (Rural Enterprise Network Support). Some of you may have met the Diss liaison person, Jean Page.

For those of you who don't know about it, RENS offers free consultancy from a qualified business expert to help support your business and, from there, you might be eligible for grant support for capital expenses.

If you don't ask, you don't get, and it's time for Diss to start getting!

• Jenna Cox, of design, web design, marketing and PR consultancy Articulate HLC, is a member of the DBF committee.