Herefordshire Council is inviting five independent, non-agricultural businesses with up to 50 employees to take part in its new Business Climate Adaptation Programme.

The programme will provide participating businesses with a climate change adaptation audit and a personalised Adaptation Action Plan.

The plans will be produced by climate change adaptation specialists Sustainability West Midlands and will identify practical measures businesses can consider to improve their resilience to extreme weather and other impacts of a changing climate.

This could include preparing for increased flood risk, extreme heat, storms or water scarcity.

Each business will receive a tailored plan setting out its top five adaptation priorities, alongside a wider programme of recommended actions, potential timescales and resource requirements. The plans will also identify organisations that may be able to support businesses in putting the recommendations into practice.

Climate change adaptation can help businesses reduce disruption, protect income and improve the resilience of their buildings, operations and workforce.

Herefordshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, said:

“Climate change is already affecting the way we live and work, and businesses across Herefordshire are not immune from those impacts.

“This programme is about giving local businesses practical, expert support to understand the risks they face and identify the steps they can take to become more resilient.

“We want businesses to be able to plan ahead rather than simply respond when extreme weather causes disruption. By helping businesses understand their vulnerabilities and identify practical solutions, we can support a stronger and more resilient local economy.”

The programme is open to independent, non-agricultural businesses based in Herefordshire with up to 50 employees.

Businesses do not need to have already taken action on climate adaptation to apply. Previous experience of extreme weather, such as flooding or extreme heat, can be included as part of the application.

If more than five eligible businesses apply, the Council will consider the extent to which organisations have previously been affected by extreme weather and their location, with the aim of supporting businesses from across the county.

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, Councillor Graham Biggs, added:

“Our local businesses are at the heart of Herefordshire’s economy. Supporting them to plan for the future is an important part of building a strong and resilient local economy.

“This programme provides businesses with practical, expert advice tailored to their individual circumstances. By helping local businesses identify potential risks and take action to reduce disruption, we can support them to remain successful, protect jobs and continue to contribute to the communities they serve.”

Businesses wishing to take part must submit an Expression of Interest by 5pm on Thursday 24 September 2026.

The Guidance Document and Expression of Interest Form are available on the Herefordshire Council website: Business climate adaptation programme - Herefordshire Council