POOLE based agency Goose Bay have launched Keeping Dorset Afloat, a new digital initiative to support local businesses and freelancers during the current coronavirus lockdown.

Keeping Dorset Afloat have started sharing offers and promotions on their dedicated Instagram account for Dorset’s local businesses and freelancers who need help in the wake of this devastating virus.

In under two weeks, the team have already collaborated with over 50 independent businesses, and have plans to working with more businesses in the near future.

Izzie Sully, Director at Goose Bay Ltd, said: "We set up Keeping Dorset Afloat a few weeks ago as we saw local businesses were starting to struggle with trade in the wake of the Covid-19 health crisis.

“As local residents ourselves we thought it'd be useful to have one simple directory of all the businesses still open & trading through these challenging times. It's our way of giving something small back to the amazing community we love living in."

From manufacturers to marketing agencies, Keeping Dorset Afloat have already shared promotions from local businesses that we can support while in isolation.

Dorchester’s Jurassic Coast Farm Shop and Norden Farm Shop in Wareham have both offered discounts on their food deliveries, whilst Digital Storm Ltd in Bournemouth have offered businesses rates on their services, helping businesses in Dorset get online.

The Keeping Dorset Afloat project is a completely free opportunity for local businesses to reach their local community.

Inspired by Conker Gin and Jimmy’s Ice Coffee, the Goose Bay team were motivated to create Keeping Dorset Afloat to do their part in supporting local businesses struggling since the Covid-19 outbreak.