A BUSINESS which opened its doors weeks before the pandemic hit continued to help customers despite lockdown.

Insurance broker A Plan opened up in February in High Street.

But within weeks its team found themselves working from home after coronavirus hit.

The team of four were able to keep in contact with clients via the phone.

Branch manager George Clark said: “From a technical perspective we have managed to stay open using remote technology that enables staff to work from home, incredibly fortunate in that sense.

“Clients on the phone have experienced minimal disruption and have really valued talking to a human being.

“We are back in the branch now with the appropriate precautions in place.

“Colchester High Street is looking really busy and it’s great to see people out supporting the local economy, the team and I are extremely proud to be playing a part in this.”

Gazette:

  • Sam Payne from A Plan

Mr Clark said the way the business works did not have to fundamentally change.

He said: “During the pandemic we have had a number of elderly and vulnerable people come to us for assistance with their insurance needs when they were being kept on hold or struggling online elsewhere.

“We don’t rush through a sales process and take the time to ensure our clients are happy with any policy they take out so that it covers them in the event of a claim.

“These people in our community have also valued the opportunity for interaction and just a chat at a time when they may be feeling incredibly isolated.”