WILTSHIRE BUSINESS WOMAN MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER ON BEHALF OF SMEs

Wiltshire business woman Debbie Williams, co-founder of John Williams Heating Services based in Chippenham, was invited to attend the SME Connect conference (March 18), where she met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

The invitation came just weeks after Debbie, who co-founded John Williams Heating Services with her husband John 20 years ago, was appointed as a member of the newly established government-led Small Business Council.

This council serves as a platform for SMEs, bringing together companies from diverse sectors such as food & drink, trades, manufacturing, and beauty. Its primary objective is to actively listen to the concerns and perspectives of small and medium-sized enterprises and present them to the Government. 

Attendees of the conference witnessed the announcement of a reform initiative by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aiming to promote a more conducive environment for SMEs to flourish. 

He said: "Whether it’s breaking down barriers and red tape for small businesses, helping businesses hire more young people into apprenticeships and skilled jobs, or empowering women to start up their own businesses – this government is sticking to the plan and leaving no stone unturned to make the UK the best place to do business."

The reform package includes various measures, such as investing £60 million to create up to 20,000 extra apprenticeships, with a special emphasis on helping young people and small businesses.

Debbie said: “I appreciate the announcement regarding apprenticeships made by the Prime Minister. The commitment to apprenticeships is a step in the right direction. The initiative will encourage employers to adopt apprenticeships as an effective method to upskill their workforces.” 

John Williams Heating Services, located on the Bumpers Farm Industrial Estate in Chippenham, demonstrates a strong commitment to apprentices. The company was recently recognised with two awards at the Wiltshire College and University Centre (WCUC) Apprenticeship Awards 2024, acknowledging their ongoing dedication to apprentices.

Debbie and John actively seek out eager individuals who are interested in learning a valuable trade and excelling in their careers. Currently, the team includes six apprentices.

For more information on Debbie Williams and John Williams Heating Services, visit www.jwheating.co.uk.