The Business Banking Resolution Service (BBRS) is a non-profit organisation set up to resolve disputes between eligible larger SMEs and participating banks. It was established in response to the commitments made by the banking and finance industry following the Simon Walker Review, in which the need for an independent service was identified to resolve eligible historical and current complaints for small and medium sized businesses that have not previously had access to independent review.
On 18 August 2021, the BBRS announced the launch of two liaison panels, intended to act as independent and transparent advisory councils to the organisation. The Bank Liaison Panel and the SME Liaison Panel will create a two-way feedback loop between the BBRS and its banking and SME stakeholders. The BBRS will share insights with both panels, including, where possible, thematic data relating to cases, enabling the panels to provide comments and feedback. The BBRS will also share insights relating to SME banking complaints. Both panels will provide inputs into the BBRS, including feedback on emerging trends and areas of concern regarding access to finance and the treatment of SMEs.