Latest Covid-19 Update for Business

We have now set up a dedicated web-page for Covid-19 related matters, where we will bring together information and guidance notes to support businesses affected by the Coronavirus outbreak.

Business Support Flowchart

If you are having difficulty identifying the types of support available to you, please see the helpful flowchart on our Financial Assistance page

Getting ready to re-open Tourism & Hospitality businesses

It is hoped that restaurants, hotels and other tourism & hospitality-related businesses may be able to re-open from early July and Visit Britain has published a new page on their Business Advice Hub for businesses getting ready to open. For further details go to our Tourism & Leisure Page

Article added 22nd June 2020

Re-opening of businesses and venues from 4 July

On 23rd June 2020, the Prime Minister announced further easements of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions as part of Step Three of the government’s plan to return life to as near normal as possible. For further details about the businesses allowed to re-open and links to guidance about measures that will need to be put in place, go to our Information for Businesses Page

Article added 24th June 2020

Discretionary Business Grants - Applications now open

The Discretionary Grant Fund supports small and micro businesses that are not eligible for other grant schemes was launched on 1st June. For further information, including links to the local authority applications see Discretionary Business Grants.

Article added 1st June 2020

The Job Retention (Furloughing) Scheme is changing from 1st July

The job retention (furloughing) scheme is changing, including allowing flexibility about bringing employees back into work whilst claiming for partial furlough. The amount of the government’s contribution will also be reducing over the coming months before the scheme ends on 31st October. Go to Support for Employers for more information.

Article added 15th June 2020