Driving mobility forward with HSBC support

Wednesbury-based Sirus converts and adapts vehicles for disabled people using pioneering technology and design, currently supporting more than 1,500 customers across the UK. Its innovative WAVs enable people with limited mobility to drive from a wheelchair or travel upfront as a passenger. The business has supported over 13,000 drivers and passengers to overcome every-day mobility issues through their car adaptation service.

The funding from HSBC UK will assist Sirus to recommence full operations as it exits lockdown. Sirus has continued with key operations including the development of new products and continued to support its vulnerable customers by maintaining a compliment of key staff, comprising field service engineers who are on call to provide help for those in need.

One of these customers was Dr Catherine Wight, a pathologist at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire. Dr Wight received support from one of the Sirus field service engineers during lockdown who was able to repair her vehicle at her home, instead of taking it back to the workshop, which ensured she was able to travel to work that day.

All Sirus Automotive field service engineers comply with the government’s two-metre social distancing rules during customer calls, as well as offering an essential shopping service if required.

Simon Pearson, managing director at Sirus Automotive, said: “During these unprecedented and uncertain times, we know that our customers rely on us now more than ever. That’s why it was crucial for the business to remain partly operational, despite the situation, to help keep our customers on the road with access to work, if essential, and local grocery stores to buy their food. Thanks to our Relationship Manager at HSBC UK, Alex Richards, we have the support required to confidently resume business as usual as and when appropriate, and continue to provide an exceptional level of service to ensure our customers can stay on the road."

Dr Wight said: “Without my Sirus vehicle conversion which I drive, I wouldn’t be able to go to work. I work 48-hours a week, so if I didn’t have my vehicle, I would have to catch two buses which would be very time-consuming! I really couldn’t be without it for any period of time at the moment. Since I have been a Sirus customer, I feel like I’ve got more mobility than ever.”

Ian Coulson, HSBC UK area director West Midlands Business Banking, added: “HSBC UK is committed to supporting its customers during this period of uncertainty. We were delighted to support the Sirus team who are now able to operate with a skeleton staff and continue to go above and beyond for their customers.”

HSBC UK is working closely with the Government and UK Finance to identify emerging issues and make sure customers and businesses have the advice and support they need. For tips and advice for businesses around planning for any possible disruption, visit www.business.hsbc.com/novel-coronavirus.

The new measures build upon the package of support that HSBC UK has already announced for business customers.