Recent news

Business are being encouraged to create a QR Code to assist with Test and Trace

Businesses across England and Wales such as pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and cinemas are being urged to ensure they have NHS QR code posters visible on entry so customers who have downloaded the new NHS COVID-19 app can use their smartphones to easily check-in.

The NHS COVID-19 app is currently being trialled and will launch on Thursday 24 September in England and Wales, including QR check-in at venues

QR codes will be an important way for NHS Test and Trace to contact multiple people if Coronavirus outbreaks are identified in venues. For further information, visit the Government's QR Code website

Article added 11th September 2020

The Growth Support Kickstart Scheme is no longer accepting applications

The Growth Support Kickstart Scheme stopped taking applications on 3rd September 2020 as the organisers have received over 300 applications all of which need to be reviewed. It is hoped that the scheme will re-open for new applications if there are funds available after all the received applications have been reviewed. This will be announced no later than 15th September 2020.

For further information about the scheme, including any news about a re-opening, visit the Heart of the South West Growth Hub's Kickstart Grant website.

Article added 8th September 2020

The Kickstart Scheme for Employers has been launched

Not to be confused with the Kickstart Funding Scheme, the Kickstart Scheme for Employers has been launched to provide funding to help create new 6-month job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. The scheme requires the creation of a minimum of 30 new job placements but if a business cannot meet this requirement on its own, it is possible to form a partnership with other businesses and submit a joint application. Visit the Government's Kickstart for Employers website for further information.

Article added 10th September 2020

Reminder that deadline for claiming under the Self-employed Income Support Scheme is 19th October 2020

Applications for the second and final grant are still open. If you’re eligible and your business has been adversely affected on or after 14 July 2020, you must, however, make your claim for the second grant on or before 19 October 2020. For further information, including details of check eligibility criteria visit the government's SEISS website

Article added 10th September 2020