Lobbying

We frequently use our connections with MPs, the WMCA, and local authorities to lobby for change on behalf of our members. By maintaining strong, constructive relationships with key decision makers, we ensure that the concerns and priorities of local businesses are heard at the highest levels. This includes raising issues that affect day to day operations, championing long term economic priorities, and pushing for policies that create a more supportive environment for growth and investment.

Our lobbying work also helps shape regional strategy by feeding real business insight into ongoing discussions about skills, transport, infrastructure, planning, and economic development. Through regular engagement, roundtables, and direct dialogue, we make sure our members’ voices influence the direction of local and regional policy. This proactive approach means businesses are not only represented but actively involved in shaping the conditions they need to thrive.

Our lobbying work takes many forms, reflecting the wide range of challenges and opportunities facing businesses across the region. Recent examples include supporting members with applications to become designated Technical Excellence Colleges, helping to strengthen local skills provision and raise the profile of specialist training. We have also assisted organisations preparing Town of Culture submissions, ensuring their proposals are championed at the right levels and aligned with wider regional priorities.

Alongside this, we regularly connect members directly with MPs to discuss pressing issues, provide support when businesses face difficulties with HMRC, and gather detailed feedback on policy matters that affect day to day operations. This has included canvassing member views on topics such as the Low Pay Commission consultation and the impact of changes within the steel industry. By bringing these insights to policymakers, we ensure that
real business experiences shape the decisions that influence our local economy.

You can contact the policy team on: policy@blackcountrychamber.co.uk or call 0330 024 0820.