Sam Rushworth MP is calling on residents to celebrate the brilliant small businesses at the heart of their communities, as his Small Business Saturday campaign returns for its third year.
Ahead of Small Business Saturday on 5 December, Sam has launched a community survey on his website inviting residents to nominate their favourite local small businesses, from cafés and hair salons to independent shops, boutiques, beauty services and handmade crafts.
The campaign shines a spotlight on the fantastic businesses that make the local area such a special place to live, work and shop. Every business nominated will be recognised, with the results shared on Sams Facebook page in the run-up to Small Business Saturday. Sam will also be visiting businesses highlighted through the survey to meet owners, show support and personally thank them for everything they contribute to the community.
Now in its third year, the campaign proved a brilliant success last year, providing a fantastic opportunity to celebrate local favourites, raise awareness of independent businesses and help residents discover new places to shop and support.
Sam said:
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. From the familiar faces behind the counter at our local cafés to the independent retailers, tradespeople and service providers who go above and beyond, they make such an important contribution to our local area.
Let’s recognise the small businesses we support every day, use December 5th as a chance to say thank you, and shout out your favourites on my survey!”
The campaign comes as Labour works to revive our high streets. The Budget announced cuts to business rates, meaning that 52% of retail, hospitality and leisure premises across the North East will pay no business rates at all.
Also announced in the Budget was the new Hope on the High Street Strategy to improve our high streets and backed by a £210 million Community Assets Package. This includes Labour’s Derelict Buildings Fund (with Durham County Council receiving a £3 million allocation) to repurpose eyesore vacant units; a £10 million High Street Rental Auctions Programme empowering local authorities to accelerate the delivery of High Street Rental Auctions; and a community ownership funding scheme to help communities take over buildings, with more information expected in early 2027.
Residents are encouraged to complete Sam’s Small Business Survey ahead of Saturday 5 December here: www.samrushworth.co.uk/survey/small-business-saturday-2026/.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
