The Voice of Small Business Survey

Small businesses are the heart of our communities. They create local jobs, bring life to our streets, and make our towns places people want to shop, connect and belong.

As part of a project focused on strengthening our communities and supporting thriving local businesses, Sally Pymer is inviting small business owners to share their experiences. This short survey explores what’s working well, the challenges businesses are facing, and what support or changes could make the biggest difference.

It takes just 2–5 minutes to complete, and your insights will help build a clearer picture of what small businesses truly need, if anything to succeed.

Thank you for helping shape stronger, more connected communities.

Surveys will be confidential, unless happy to continue conversation further. If happy to discuss further, results will remain confidential to Sally.

1. What type of small business do you operate?

2. How many people work in your business, including you?

3. On a scale of 1-10, how connected do you currently feel to your work and business? 1= Completely disconnected, 10 = Highly energised and engaged

4. What is the biggest challenge your business is currently facing?

5. Do you feel small businesses like yours are losing customers to larger companies?

Yes, significantly

Sometimes

Not really

Unsure

6. How would you describe staff morale in your business right now?

7. How connected do your customers seem to your business or brand?

very loyal and connected

mostly loyal

somewhat connected

not very connected

8. What worries you most about the future of your business?

9. What is currently working well in your business?

10. If you could solve one challenge in your business right now, what would it be?

11. What do you believe would most help small businesses thrive right now?

better community support for local businesses

stronger staff culture and morale

more loyal customers

better marketing and visibility

support networks for small business owners

other

12. If someone could help improve connection between business owners, staff and customers, how valuable would that be to you?

extremely valuable

very valuable

somewhat valuable

not very valuable