South Yorkshire Chambers Share Preliminary Results for Ongoing Cyber Security Survey

The three South Yorkshire Chambers have shared preliminary findings from their ongoing Cyber Security Survey, revealing important insights into business preparedness as they face growing cyber risks. Businesses that have not yet participated are being encouraged to do so, helping to build a clearer picture of the support local firms need. 

Current results show that 20% of businesses in South Yorkshire have experienced a cyber security breach within the last 12 months. In response, the Chambers are urging businesses to take part in the survey, providing valuable insight that will help local cyber security providers, policymakers and support organisations better understand the challenges businesses are facing and the solutions they need. 

The latest findings raise concerns amid ongoing economic pressures highlighted in previous Quarterly Economic Survey results. With rising costs and overheads continuing to impact businesses across the region, respondents have identified costs as taking the biggest impact from arising cyber security risks. At a time when many organisations are already operating under significant financial pressure, the consequences of a cyber-attack or data breach could be particularly damaging. 

Dan Fell MBE, Chief Executive of Doncaster Chamber, said: "Businesses need confidence that they are operating in a secure environment, particularly as technology continues to evolve at pace. It is vital that decision-makers understand the challenges businesses are facing beneath the surface and identify the support, investment and practical solutions that will give organisations the confidence they need to thrive." 

However, the survey has also highlighted a concerning contradiction. While businesses recognise the importance of improving their cyber resilience, many cite cost as the biggest barrier to doing so. In other words, businesses are facing a situation where the financial impact of cyber security incidents is a major concern, yet the investment required to strengthen their resilience remains out of reach for many. Respondents have highlighted a need for greater funding and support to help improve cyber resilience, safeguard business continuity and protect long-term growth. 

Louisa Harrison-Walker OBE, Chief Executive of Sheffield Chamber, said: "One of the clearest messages emerging from these findings is that businesses understand the importance of cyber security, but many simply do not have the resources to invest in it. That's why it is so important that we understand exactly where the challenges lie. The more businesses that share their experiences, the stronger the case we can make for targeted support." 

With AI becoming more commonplace across businesses of all sizes, and 33% of business still not having a formal Cyber Security Strategy in place, ensuring it is implemented safely and effectively is a growing priority. Sharing both strengths and challenges through the survey will help ensure future support programmes are shaped by businesses. 

Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: "We are vocal about the findings we receive through our surveys because they provide a direct reflection of the experiences of our business community. Businesses can be assured that the insights gathered will be shared with our cyber security partners, local councillors and MPs, helping to ensure that the support available is informed by the needs of businesses across South Yorkshire." 

Businesses can still take part in the survey until 14th September 2026, via their local Chamber of Commerce website.