A business helpline has been opened as a central point for advice and assistance for businesses still suffering due to the floods.

Following the City Council's launch on Thursday of a public helpline for individual people affected by the recent floods, today a dedicated business helpline has also been launched (0800 915 6913) to deliver advice and information to assist Sheffield businesses of all sizes and sectors who have been affected by the flooding.

Advice will range from information on practical issues such as road closures, power supplies and contamination through to how to access any financial assistance that is to be made available through the regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

The Sheffield Business Floodline has been established through a joint effort between Creative Sheffield, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Business Link South Yorkshire. The Sheffield Business helpline will be open from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday until further notice.

Ends Note: This complements the helpline in operation since Thursday morning to assist individuals affected by the flooding. That helpline is open from 7am to 11pm until further notice. This is a freephone service and the number is 0800 915 6912. Face to face advice and assistance is available from the Humanitarian Assistance Centre, at First Point on Union Street (which is open 8.30am - 5.30pm).