An Ulverston-based accountancy firm has launched a survey to gather the views of Cumbria's small and medium-sized businesses on the economy, business growth, and government policy.
The survey, launched by JF Hornby & Co, comes at a time when SMEs are facing economic uncertainty, rising costs, and changing government policies.
It aims to capture the concerns of business owners and assess confidence levels across the region.
Paul Hornby, managing director of JF Hornby & Co, said: "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, but they’re being squeezed from all sides.
"We’ve had a wave of legislation in recent months – from tax changes to rising National Insurance thresholds – but the big question is whether any of this is helping or hindering business owners.
"My strong suspicion is the latter, but we want to hear directly from the people who are making tough decisions every day."
Recent government measures, including increases in the National Living Wage, corporation tax changes, and ongoing uncertainty around business rates, have created challenges for SMEs across Cumbria and the UK.
The survey aims to explore how the government's policies are affecting hiring, investment, and long-term confidence.
Mr Hornby added: "We hear from clients every day who are worried about inflation, energy costs, and access to finance.
"Politicians in Westminster don’t always understand the reality for businesses outside the London bubble.
"This survey is a chance for Cumbria’s SMEs to have their voices heard – and we’ll make sure they are."
The results are set to be shared with local policymakers, business groups, and the wider community to highlight key issues affecting SMEs in Cumbria.
Business owners can take part in the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/MXQ3XWF
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