The “New Normal”
As we start to come out of lockdown, we have reviewed how we operate and how best we can provide you with our continued support and service. We have looked at the potential benefits and risks involved, with an emphasis on ensuring both your and our safety during this time.
What will change?
In many ways the “New Normal” will be like the “Old Normal” with just a few variations, which we have set out below:
The Office
We are maintaining our office in Windsor House, but all of us are working remotely from home at least for the next few months. Alex is going to the office each day to pick up post and any correspondence which may have been dropped off at reception, but otherwise the office is empty.
Telephones
Our main office telephone number is 01423 863800 and will be answered as usual. Alex usually works Monday to Thursday from 08:30 to 14:30. Outside of these times, or if Alex is on another call, we have a “real person” answering service to answer your call and take a message. All calls will be returned no later than the next working day.
Meetings
We are able to arrange meetings either via telephone or video conference, depending on your preference. The feedback from clients has been positive, as these meeting are as effective as face to face meetings and saved a considerable amount of travel.
If an urgent face to face meeting is required, we can arrange this but we will assess each request on its own merits as our preference is for a telephone or video conference for safety reasons.
Documents, paperwork and working with third parties
Where possible, we are working with providers to ensure the services levels are maintained. Many providers are looking at ways to improve their systems to adapt to the restrictions and ensure they are providing a reasonable service level. Where appropriate, we are requesting that they accept electronic instructions, paperwork and copies of documents, but we cannot always guarantee this will occur.
Thank you
Finally, thank you for the many supportive emails that you have sent under these rather challenging times. Alex, Colin and I welcome this feedback and appreciate your understanding of some of the issues we have all had to deal with.