Bibby Financial Services (BFS) has announced its support for the Business Finance Council’s SME Finance Charter, in a bid to improve access to finance and help for businesses during Brexit and beyond.

The Charter provides a framework for financiers to outline specific commitments to SMEs in relation to preparing for Brexit and was adopted at the Business Finance Council’s first meeting on 9 October.

The Business Finance Council is co-chaired by Business Secretary, Andrew Leadsom and Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen.

Edward Winterton, UK chief executive at BFS, said: “We recognise the importance of helping our clients and other SMEs to prepare for Brexit, which is why we have signed-up to the SME Finance Charter.

“We’ve supported UK businesses for more than 35 years and are committed to continuing this support by helping them to access the funding they need and through additional support services, throughout Brexit and beyond.”

Small Business Minister Kelly Tolhurst said: “Financial support from banks and lenders is often crucial to the success of an SME. So it is great to see Bibby Financial Services reaffirming support for their business customers through our new SME Finance Charter.

“Bibby Financial Services’ commitments of continued and proactive support will give their SME customers the confidence they need ahead of Brexit on 31 October and beyond – with opportunities to thrive, grow and scale up in new markets.”