BOSS: The war in Ukraine

BOSS has released a statement on the ongoing situation in Ukraine

The invasion of Ukraine by Russia on the 24th of February is a tragic event, and our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine in this devastating humanitarian crisis. 

Below we have gathered links to information, research and government guidance that may support your business and employees at this time. We have also signposted to how businesses can help the people of Ukraine and know that numerous companies and individuals in our industry are already taking action.

We encourage you to share your efforts with us and we will publicise these so companies in our sector can collaborate where appropriate, please email amy@bossfederation.co.uk

Economic Impact

We are aware that many companies in our sector are analysing the impact on their business of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We are working with them to assess impact on the sector as a whole and will be sending out a survey.

Currently we know that some companies have suspended the purchasing of products produced in Russia and ceased business with Russia. Many companies in our sector have also been supporting the humanitarian crisis by collecting needed items and dispatching these to Ukraine or donating money.

CBI early economic analysis

The CBI, of which BOSS are a member through their partner BPIF, have conducted early analysis of the economic impact of the crisis in Ukraine on the UK economy looking at four main channels:

  • Energy (and other commodities)
  • Trade
  • Financial links
  • Confidence

Alongside the possible implications for UK inflation, growth and the outlook for interest rates.

You can view this here.

Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) request business insight

BOSS meet regularly with BEIS who in this instance have asked us to feed in business insight for our sector. If your business is impacted, please email amy@bossfederation.co.uk.

UK Government Sanctions relating to Russia

The UK government have announced sanctions relating to Russia. This sanctions regime is aimed at encouraging Russia to cease actions destabilising Ukraine or undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty, or independence of Ukraine.

You can view all sanctions here.

Government have advised if businesses have questions about the impact of these sanctions on their business, or business operations in Ukraine or Russia, to contact the Export Support Service who are providing a front-line Russia sanctions support service to all businesses. Contact details can be found below:

Export Support Team

Telephone: 0300 303 8955

Textphone: 18001 303 8955

Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm (excluding public holidays)

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) advises organisations to act following Russia’s further violation of Ukraine

The NCSC has urged organisations of all sizes to follow its guidance on steps to take when the cyber threat is heightened.

The guidance can be viewed here, it encourages organisations of all sizes to follow actionable steps that reduce the risk of falling victim to an attack.

While the NCSC is not aware of any current specific threats to UK organisations in relation to events in and around Ukraine, there has been a historical pattern of cyber-attacks on Ukraine with international consequences.

Additional links:

Advice for Boards on how to manage cyber risk

Advice for SMEs

Advice to tackle ransomware

Supporting Employees in Ukraine and Russia

If your company has British nationals in Russia and/or Ukraine please visit the governments embassy pages which provide information on travel documents, urgent assistant and advice for British nationals who have family members in Ukraine.

Embassy Page Russia

Embassy Page Ukraine

How can your business support the humanitarian impact?

Many businesses in the OP Industry have already taken actions to support the humanitarian consequences of the Ukraine crisis, whether through monetary donations to relevant charities or through offers of support to Ukraine citizens.

If you would like to donate, please visit the suggested charities below:  

Red Cross

So far, Red Cross teams in Ukraine have distributed over 30,000 food and hygiene parcels and provided food, warm clothes, and other aid to around 8,000 people sheltering in metro stations.

First aid training has also been delivered to over 2,000 people taking cover in metro stations and bomb shelters, so they have the skills to treat their loved ones if needed.

UNICEF

The whole child population of Ukraine, 7.5million children, are now at risk as conflict escalates. UNICEF are helping to provide access to clean water, healthy food, and lifesaving supplies to families in addition to ensuring that child protection services continue.

Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC)

The DEC unites 15 member charities who are experts in humanitarian aid and specialists in different areas of disaster response. The DEC launches appeals during times of monumental suffering.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter like us on Facebook or connect with us on LinkedIn!

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply