UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 3,985,161 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 13,013 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 26,684, 74 fewer than on previous day
New deaths across UK: 1,001
Total UK deaths: 114,851
England Cases per 100,000: 179
R number in UK: 0.7 – 1.1
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 13,058,297 – latest daily figure
Daily 1st doses: 411,812
There have been nearly 4 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and over 114,000 people have died. However, these figures include only people who have died within 28 days of testing positive for coronavirus. More than 13 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine. Target to offer vaccine to 15 million people by mid-February.
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 18,262 to 8th February
Current cases: 631 (113 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 595 to January 29th
Cases per 100,000: 215 per 100,000
R number in North West: 0.7 – 1.0
The R number in the North West has fallen to between 0.7 – 1.0
The R value and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK – The R range is one of the most important factors in making policy decisions
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
National lockdown: Stay at Home
Coronavirus cases are rising rapidly across the country. Find out what you can and cannot do – updated to clarify the guidance on campaigning for electoral events.
UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
WHO confirms support for Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine for over 18s
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a statement confirming the UK-produced Oxford/Astra Zeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be given to all adults over 18. The Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine has been used alongside as a key part of the mammoth roll out across the UK, alongside vaccines produced by Pfizer and Moderna. However, certain European nations have declined to use the Astra Zeneca jab due to concerns over its level of immunisation for the over 65 age-bracket, but the WHO have claimed the vaccine can be delivered “without an upper age limit”.
“Significant step forward” for AstraZeneca as revenues climb nearly 10%
The British pharmaceutical company behind a coronavirus vaccine has announced that its revenue has increased by nearly 10 per cent over the past year. AstraZeneca, which received authorisation for the emergency distribution of its Covid-19 vaccine in December last year, has reported that revenues in 2020 grew by 9 per cent to $26,617m. The company reported that new medicines accounted for 52 per cent of its total revenue, compared to 43 per cent in 2019.
BBC: Kent strain of coronavirus set to become dominant strain
The coronavirus variant which was first detected in Kent last year is set to become the world’s dominant strain, according to the head of the UK’s genetic surveillance programme. Prof Sharon Peacock told the BBC that the new variant had “swept the country” and was “going to sweep the world, in all probability”. The Kent variant was originally detected in September 2020 and has since been found in more than 50 countries. But Prof Peacock said vaccines approved for use in the UK appeared to work well against the existing variants of the virus in the country.
Coronavirus and the latest indicators for the UK economy and society: 11 February 2021
Early experimental data on the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the UK economy and society. These faster indicators are created using rapid response surveys, novel data sources and experimental methods.
A record 3 million people tested by NHS Test and Trace this reporting week
More than 3 million people were tested by NHS Test and Trace this reporting week, the highest number ever in a single week.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Stockport NHS research supports new vaccine
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has welcomed news that the new Novavax vaccine has been found to be 89.3% effective at preventing Covid-19. The trust recruited 762 participants and was the second largest contributor to the study in the UK.
GM leaders support phased national release from lockdown
Greater Manchester’s mayor has announced that the ten leaders of the city-region’s local authorities are unanimous in supporting a phased national release from lockdown. Speaking at his weekly press briefing, Andy Burnham said he had been invited to feed opinions into Government reiterating that, in his opinion, the tier system didn’t work, and that ease of lockdown should go at the pace of the area slowest to recover. Covid-data across Greater Manchester – read more
Greater Manchester Chamber’s first business survey for 2021 shows that businesses are suffering from the dual impact of Covid-19 and Brexit.?
The third national lockdown and uncertainty over when restrictions will be eased have contributed to a further decrease in demand, according to the COVID-19 and Brexit Impact Tracker survey conducted between 18th January and 1st February by Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce. The latest survey results show that sales to both domestic and overseas customers have weakened considerably since December and are now at their lowest levels since at the peak of the coronavirus crisis. On Brexit, three-quarters of businesses that are currently trading with EU markets reported serious difficulties in preparing for the new rules. Of these, 15% are preparing to scale down EU trade because they find the new procedures too complex or costly to comply with.
CORONAVIRUS GRANTS FOR BUSINESSES IN STOCKPORT:
Support Scheme for Stockport’s large strategic employers
Grants of up to £150,000 per business are available, with applications required by 28th February 2021. Businesses will be considered if they are based in Stockport with over 50 employees and have a strategic impact on the local economy (businesses with less than 50 employees will be considered in exceptional circumstances where there is exceptional contribution demonstrated to the economic vibrancy locally). Please consider the application guidance and check the eligibility criteria on the following web page: www.stockport.gov.uk/support-scheme-for-large-strategic-employers
Stockport Council expands eligibility for Discretionary Grant Schemes
Stockport Council has announced it is expanding its discretionary grant schemes to support a greater range of businesses affected by the pandemic.
The new Micro-business support scheme will see businesses outside of the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors become eligible for both the Stockport Additional Restrictions Grant scheme and the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses, affecting organisations that were impacted during the lockdown from 5th November to 2nd December, and subsequent periods of lockdown. Support will be backdated to the first date of eligibility. The discretionary schemes allow councils to support businesses that have missed out on other support as they do not have a business rates liability. Stockport Council is adding a number of sectors to those already eligible for the schemes. Details here To be eligible for the Stockport Additional Restrictions Grant scheme bus also meet specific criteria – details here Businesses will need to be able to demonstrate that they have fixed property costs and demonstrate a loss in income as a result of the pandemic.
Applications for the above scheme are now open and may be accessed here
Micro-business support grant – Stockport Council
Some businesses have not been eligible to receive a grant, and this continues to be the case – find out more here
Please note: The Council has now received funding for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme for the period following the end of the lockdown on 2nd December 2020.
A system to make automated repeat payments for qualifying businesses based on their initial applications is being used and so there is no need for businesses to reapply after their first application for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme. Funds will be paid to businesses and an email will be sent to each business stating that in accepting the funding they are confirming that they meet the qualifying conditions and statements set out in the email.
If you have not yet applied for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme, you will need to make an initial application before you can be considered to be eligible to receive any automatic payments for further qualifying periods. Further information on the schemes will be updated on the Stockport Council website.
Business grant schemes designed to provide support in and out of lockdown
There are a number of business grant schemes available that cover different periods of time and different situations, such as being under national lockdown.
Updated with info for businesses to check on eligibility etc. to the new grants: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19#support-for-businesses-affected-by-coronavirus-restrictions
Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
AGRICULTURE:
Coming to the UK for seasonal agricultural work on English farms
Advice for seasonal agricultural workers coming to England to pick fruit and vegetables on farms, and their employers – updated with a link to the countries from which travel to the UK is banned.
BUSINESS:
National Apprenticeship Week 2021: building back better with apprentices
Government highlights apprentices and employers across the UK who have been keeping the country running during the pandemic.
Covid-19 key updates – testing, new assets available and the publication of app data???.
Workplace Testing:
The Department for Health has published information about a new drive to increase workplace testing in sectors open during lockdown to detect Coronavirus in people who are not showing symptoms.
COVID-19 Testing for Employees:
Businesses can register to order coronavirus (COVID-19) rapid lateral flow tests for employees if:
- Your business is registered in England
- You employ 50 people or more
- Your employees cannot work from home
Businesses should register interest to participate in the scheme here: bit.ly/WorkTestNorth Further assets for private and public sector businesses and employees taking part in Workplace Testing are available here. This service is not for employees with symptoms. Anyone with symptoms should order an individual test and stay at home.
???NHS Covid-19 App Data Publication:
To see the first set of new weekly metrics about the use of the NHS Covid-19 app, as well as evidence demonstrating the impact and effectiveness of the app in helping to manage our pandemic response, see here.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from self-isolation, passenger locator form or COVID testing requirements – removed exemption for new domestic elite sportspersons
Alex Brazier to leave Financial Policy Committee
Alex Brazier, Executive Director for Financial Stability Strategy and Risk and a member of the Financial Policy Committee (FPC), has decided to take a career break from the Bank of England to broaden his professional experience.
He will therefore not seek appointment to a third three-year term as a member of the Financial Policy Committee when his current term ends on 31 March. He will also stand down as the Bank’s Executive Director for Financial Stability Strategy and Risk at that point. With a six-month notice period, Alex will begin his career break at the end of September. The Bank will shortly begin a recruitment process to identify Alex’s replacement.
HMRC publish Employer Bulletin including Job Retention scheme and IR35
The latest Employer Bulletin has some important information and updates to help you prepare for the end of the tax year. There’s also guidance about new products and changes which may affect you and gives you access to further information.
This edition of the Employer Bulletin covers:
- Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
- end of tax year reporting and the checks which need to be completed
- VAT reverse charge and changes to off-payroll working (IR35)
- National Insurance holiday for employers of veterans.
You may notice a different look and feel to this edition, this is due to changes in the way the Bulletin is published to enable us to meet the requirements of the Public Sector Accessibility Regulations.
COMMUNITY:
Community testing
Community asymptomatic testing helps identify and isolate individuals who have coronavirus (COVID-19) but do not have symptoms.
By working in collaboration, Stockport can become united and encouraged to build a better future for everyone by supporting the local economy, connecting communities and promoting health & wellbeing. Find out more at www.onestockport.co.uk
CONSTRUCTION:
Confusion over Covid contract liability
Contractors and clients are still in the dark about who is liable for Covid related costs and time delays on projects. Research from consultant Turner & Townsend found one in three firms fear their contracts were not fit to address the effects of the pandemic. The survey showed that the majority of liability arising from Covid-19 events was believed to be held by the client rather than contractor.
But 45% of those surveyed reported an increase in contractual disputes since the start of the pandemic and 63% have sought contractual guidance from the government with another third turning to consulting industry bodies or other industry professionals for advice.
Electricians launch own financial support scheme
A group of electricians have launched their own support fund to ensure that if any of them contract Covid-19 or are forced to self-isolate they will not be left financially destitute. The workers are employed by electrical subcontractor NG Bailey and are working on the new £734m MENSA building at the Atomic Weapons Establishment in Aldermarston, Berkshire. If any are required to self-isolate due to coming into contact with someone with Covid-19, they are only entitled to statutory sick pay of just £95 a week. The workers agreed to establish their own collection system. Each pays £10 a week into the scheme and if a worker is required to self-isolate or develops Covid-19 they are paid £205, which together with the £95 SSP means they receive a total of £300 a week. Up to 120 workers are participating in the scheme and there are 8-10 workers involved in collecting the workers’ money.
DIGITAL & IT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): keeping children safe online
Advice and guidance to help parents and carers to keep children safe online during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – updated SafeToNet licensing information.
EDUCATION:
New Commissioner appointed to oversee education catch-up
Prime Minister and the Education Secretary appoint Sir Kevan Collins as Education Recovery Commissioner – added ‘Education Recovery Commissioner: role specification and terms of reference’.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT)
Information for providers about managing initial teacher training courses impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) – updated the critical workers section and added a section about legal requirements and planned amendments to regulation. We have also updated the remote observations, moderation and assessment section with information on the Assessment Only (AO) route.
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19)
Information on the return of students and NHS Test and Trace channels.
Updates made to ‘Higher education: reopening buildings and campuses’ including renaming it ‘Higher education: operational guidance’ to reflect that it is no longer about the start of the 2020/21 academic year and ensure that it is consistent with other published guidance.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.
COVID-19 vaccination training slide set updated.
Private providers of coronavirus testing
Lists of and information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested
Guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test and how to get tested – added details on getting instructions on home tests for the blind or visually impaired, and changed the length of time for lateral flow test results (from 2 hours to 30 minutes).
COVID-19: reported SARS-CoV-2 deaths in England
Monthly report presenting the latest data on COVID-19 mortality in England in people with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2.
COVID-19: background information
Information enclosed on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features – updated global case numbers.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): notification to organisations to share information
Notification to healthcare organisations, GPs, local authorities and arm’s length bodies that they should share information to support efforts against coronavirus (COVID-19).
NHS COVID-19 app: privacy information
Privacy notice and data protection impact assessment for the NHS COVID-19 mobile app. – updated the privacy notice to reflect changes to the app to align with testing policy for the user’s country (England or Wales), based on their local authority, which includes confirmatory testing. Added more detail about the service monitoring of the app’s functionality (in the section ‘Function: all features’).
Updated estimates of coronavirus (COVID-19) related deaths by disability status, England: 24 January to 20 November 2020
Estimates of differences in COVID-19 mortality risk by self-reported disability status and diagnosed learning disability status for deaths occurring up to 20 November 2020, using linked data from the 2011 Census, death registrations, and primary care and hospital records.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine adverse reactions
A weekly report covering adverse reactions to approved COVID-19 vaccines
Published latest ADR (adverse drug reaction) data, covering the period up to 31 January 2021.
NHS Test and Trace (England) statistics: 28 January to 3 February 2021
Experimental statistics on NHS Test and Trace since its launch on 28 May 2020. Includes reports on NHS Test and Trace (people tested and contact tracing) and rapid (lateral flow device) testing for people without symptoms.
JUDICIARY:
Courts and tribunals additional capacity during coronavirus outbreak: Nightingale courts
This page holds a list of additional facilities opening to support the courts and tribunals estate during the coronavirus outbreak.
HMCTS weekly management information during coronavirus outbreak
The management information used by HMCTS for understanding the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on workload volumes and activity at a national level on a weekly basis – HMCTS weekly management information during coronavirus – March 2020 to January 2021
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Exceptional financial support for local authorities: capitalisation directions
Details of capitalisation directions granted to local authorities that have requested exceptional financial support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): emergency funding for local government in 2020 to 2021 and additional support in 2021 to 2022
Allocations of additional funding to local authorities in financial year 2020 to 2021 and additional support for local government in financial year 2021 to 2022 – added policy paper: COVID-19 funding for local government in 2021 to 2022.
PROPERTY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): temporary measures to support customers
How we are delivering our services during the coronavirus outbreak – updated the timescales for register queries, updates to the register, complex changes and new entries.
TRANSPORT:
Transport use during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
To monitor the use of the transport system during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. DfT provides statistics on transport use by mode.
Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Vehicles: Find out how to make your workplace COVID-secure – added guidance on tests and vaccinations. See the ‘What’s changed’ section for more information.
TRAVEL:
Prime Minister: more information on roadmap to book summer holidays on 22nd
The BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg asked the PM whether people should be booking summer holidays or not, at home or abroad, at the government’s coronavirus briefing on Wednesday (10 February). Prime minister Boris Johnson has promised further details on summer holidays in the government’s Covid road map announcement, fixed for the week beginning 22 February. It comes after transport secretary Grant Shapps said holidays would likely be dependent on the progress of the UK’s vaccination programme by the summer, and efforts overseas too.
Covid-19 Webinars:
Remote education webinars
How to access school-led webinars on remote education to help share good practice – new dates for webinars for teachers added.
Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)
Watch videos and register for the free webinars to learn more about the?support available to help you deal with the economic impacts of?coronavirus. The YouTube video for Self-Employment Income Support Scheme – Universal Credit and Child Benefit has been updated.
Make your workplace COVID-secure:
You can find recordings of webinars covering other types of workplace here
HMRC:
Coronavirus COVID-19 Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme:
Providing an overview of the scheme, this webinar looks at who can claim, when to start paying SSP, employees you can claim for, making a claim, keeping records, and more. Choose a date and time to view webinar
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – How to make a claim:
This guides you through making a claim, including the essential information you need, what to do before you make your claim, calculating and processing your claim.
Choose a date and time
If you’ve missed any of HMRC’s live webinars, you can catch up series of recorded webinars on HMRC’s YouTube channel – available at a time to suit you.
Brexit Webinars:
Business Growth Hub webinars – click on the links to register your interest:
The Business Growth Hub webinars are designed to help businesses navigate through the new legislation, rules and procedures brought about by Brexit
EU Exit Webinar New rules and procedures for EU Trade (Importing & Exporting)- Focusing on Goods
Date: 14th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
EU Exit Webinar Regulation & Compliance
Date: 20th January 2021, 2:00pm -4:00pm
EU Exit Webinar – Food & Drink Labelling
Date: 26th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
EU Exit Webinar – New rules and procedures for EU Trade- focusing on services
Date: 27th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Exporting: Actions you need to take now: An overview of the actions you need to take now before you export goods from Great Britain to the EU and move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Key processes include – staged border controls, zero-rated VAT, customs declaration, using an intermediary as well as licences, certificates, and authorisations. Please register to take part if you’re planning to export.
Trader responsibilities when using an intermediary: You now need to complete import or export declarations to trade goods with the EU. These are complex and a lot of businesses choose to use an intermediary to do these for them. This webinar explains your responsibilities as a trader if you choose to use an intermediary. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import or export.
What are customs import declarations?: If you import goods, you now need to make customs import declarations on controlled goods and all goods by the end of June. This webinar will help you understand what they are in more detail. This includes what is needed for simplified declarations, supplementary declarations, how to make them, and delayed import declarations. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import.
Importing: Staged controls and how to prepare to use them: This webinar will walk you through the three stages of the new border controls introduced on 1?? ?January?? ?2021, and what actions you need to take for each stage. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import.
Twice weekly: EnterprisingYou
Finance support for the self-employed webinars For info about latest webinar date announcements please visit the website https://enterprising-you.co.uk/latest-news/
ACAS
A series of courses to help businesses with transition from lockdown
Useful information and links:
Publishing information about your claimsIn January HMRC published the list of employers who claimed under the CJRS for periods from December onwards, on GOV???.UK.
Repayment period for Bounce Back Loans extended to ten years
Businesses that took out government Bounce Back loans to help them through the Coronavirus crisis now have more time to repay. Companies will be contacted with options to extend the length of the loan from six to 10 years as part of a new ‘pay-as-you-grow’ initiative. The new proposals give businesses three new options:
1. Extending the length of the loan from six years to 10;
2. Making interest-only payments for six months, then repaying the principal on a phased basis with other interest-only periods;
3. Delaying repayments entirely for up to six months.
Check if your business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions (for closed businesses)
Check if your business is eligible for the coronavirus Closed Businesses Lockdown Payment
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Additional Restrictions Grant
Check if your nightclub, dance hall or adult entertainment business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses)
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses)
Check if you’re eligible for the Christmas Support Payment for wet-led pubs
Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to pay VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020.
Report an outbreak of Coronavirus in Stockport:https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
Coronavirus – Guidance for employees and employers in Stockport: https://www.stockport.gov.uk/guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
COVID-19 Winter Plan
The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the end of 2020 and into the start of 2021.
Government extends JRS furlough scheme at 80% for period of lockdown
The government has said the furlough scheme, due to have closed on 31st October, would now be extended until December.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Additional Restrictions Grant
The Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) supports businesses that are not covered by other grant schemes or where additional funding is needed.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Closed)) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary local restrictions.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Open)) supports businesses that have been severely impacted due to temporary local restrictions.
Check if your business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions (for closed businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Closed) Addendum supports businesses that have been required to close due to the national restrictions between 5 November and 2 December 2020.
Check which employees you can put on furlough to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out which employees you can put on furlough and claim for through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. Eligibility criteria has been made clearer for employees who are made redundant on or after 23 September 2020 and you have re-employed and employees that have a fixed term contract that expired after 23 September. The dates relating to TUPE eligibility have also been corrected.
New National Restrictions from 5 November
Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available.
Job Retention Bonus (JRB)
Employers are able to claim a one-off payment of £1,000 for every eligible employee furloughed and claimed for through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), kept continuously employed until at least 31??? ?January 2021 and who meets the other eligibility criteria. Claims can be made between 15??? ?February and 31??? ?March.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – closes on 31??? ?October
Please note that this scheme closes on 31??? ?October and employers will need to make any final claims on or before 30??? ?November. You will not be able to submit or add to any claims after 30??? ?November.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary COVID-19 local lockdown restrictions imposed by the government.
Job Support Scheme expanded to help businesses forced to close
The Government’s Job Support Scheme (JSS) has been expanded to support businesses across the UK required to close their premises due to coronavirus restrictions.
Home workers can claim £26 tax relief for job expenses
If you’ve asked your employees to work from home, and you’ve not reimbursed them already, your employees may be entitled to claim tax relief on additional household expenses they’ve incurred, such as heating and lighting.
New hotline launched to report COVID fraudsters
A new hotline has been launched to stop fraudsters illegally targeting COVID stimulus schemes.
Full list of local COVID alert levels by area
The areas in England listed as local COVID alert level high and local COVID alert level very high.
Local COVID Alert level: Very High (Liverpool City Region)
Guidance on additional restrictions for Liverpool City Region.
Local COVID Alert Level Posters
A series of graphical posters displaying information about the Local COVID Alert Level.
If you would like to register your interest in creating one or more Kickstart Job, please complete the Kickstart Employer Enquiry Form and a member of the Council’s Kickstart Team will contact you to explain more.
Find someone to apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant on your behalf
Find a Kickstart gateway in England, Scotland or Wales who have expressed interest in helping employers get a Kickstart Scheme grant.
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme employer resources
If you’ve been offered Kickstart Scheme funding, you can use these resources to show your support for the scheme.
Kickstart Scheme employer contacts
List of regional contacts for employers applying for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.
Apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant: 30 or more job placements
If you are an employer looking to create 30 or more jobs placements for young people, apply for funding as part of the Kickstart Scheme.
Apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant: 29 or less job placements
If you are an employer looking to create 29 or less jobs placements for young people, apply for funding as part of the Kickstart Scheme.
Coronavirus Act report: September 2020
The third two-monthly report on which powers in the Coronavirus Act 2020 are currently active.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant extension
The grant is being extended from 1 November 2020. Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can get.
Hospitality venues in England are now legally required to enforce the rule of 6 or face a fine of up to £4,000.
Designated businesses and organisations, including hospitality, close contact services and leisure venues, will also be legally required to log details of customers, visitors and staff for NHS Test and Trace and required to display official NHS QR code posters under law
NHS Test and Trace service in the workplace
Guidance on the NHS Test and Trace service for employers, businesses and workers updated to reflect the new legal requirements for designated venues to collect contact details and display official NHS QR code posters from 24th September
If you would like to register your interest in creating one or more Kickstart Job, please complete the Kickstart Employer Enquiry Form and a member of the Council’s Kickstart Team will contact you to explain more.
Visit the Stockport Council website to report details of any outbreaks online. https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
The SMBC website and produce a form for completion online if anyone wants to report an outbreak. The links are now live and are below:
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme employer resources
If you’ve been offered Kickstart Scheme funding, you can use these resources to show your support for the scheme.
Kickstart Scheme employer contacts
List of regional contacts for employers applying for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.
New opening times for Stockport Council Coronavirus Helpline
The helpline for vulnerable people across Stockport can now be accessed through new opening times by calling 0161 217 6046:
• Monday – Thursday from 9am to 5pm
• Friday from 9am to 4.30pm
• Saturdays from 10am to 1pm
At busy times, residents are automatically offered a call-back from one of our call handlers.
Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can’t do
Frequently asked questions on what you can and can’t do during the coronavirus outbreak – guidance updated in line with new regulations coming into force on 4 July
Business Survey:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dcms-coronavirus-impact-business-survey/dcms-business-survey-headline-measures
New tools and resources available from Acas:
Redundancy letter templates
Redundancy process map Acas have also contributed to the development of a new return to work toolkit in partnership with SOM, CIPD, BITC and Mind.
Applications Now Open for the Local Authority Discretion Fund. Businesses that had been eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support are also now eligible for the LA Discretionary Business Grant.
Apply for the coronavirus Future Fund
The Future Fund will provide UK Government loans to UK-based companies ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, subject to at least equal match funding from private investors.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme set to launch
Employers will be able to make claims through the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme from 26 May.
Business Support in Stockport – a centre pool of information to support business owners in Stockport:
www.skbusinessrecovery.co.uk
Government – Guidance on Returning to Work safely
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Government – Setting out of Road Map to recovery – 11th May 2020
Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s 60 page COVID-19 recovery strategy
The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy. The strategy sets out a cautious roadmap to easing existing measures in a safe and measured way, subject to successfully controlling the virus and being able to monitor and react to its spread.Stockport Council has launched a FREE job matching website to help support employers with vacancies and individuals across the Stockport borough who are looking for work. The service, Stockport Jobs Match, will help to connect employers who have urgent temporary or permanent vacancies with applicants who are immediately available and in need of employment. The website also helps signpost individuals to available support services and information.
www.stockport-jobsmatch.co.uk
Coronavirus Act 2020: status
A table setting out the status of each measure in the Coronavirus Act 2020.
Government – Financial Support
New 100% government backed loan scheme for small business
Stockport Council – Health & Mental Well-being https://www.stockport.gov.uk/showcase/coronavirus
Government – Financial Support
CBILS – A guide to whether it may be the best options for a business
Government – Financial Support
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – online claims portal open
Government – Business Support:
Government launches new coronavirus business support finder tool
Government – Business Support Hub:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Government – IT safety support:
Government Warnings Over Coronavirus Scams – Here’s How to Protect Yourself
Government – Financial Support:
HMRC has published guidance on how it will work out income and profits for the self-employed or those in a partnership who have lost profits due to coronavirus.
Government – Business Support:
https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19
Government – Financial Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-business-support-grant-funding
Government – Business Support:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses
Bank of England – Financial Support: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2020/march/the-covid-corporate-financing-facility
Stockport Council Grant scheme:
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/business-rates-support-measures
Gov.uk: Maintaining Educational Provision: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision
UK Lockdown – Further businesses to close and exceptions: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874732/230320_-_Revised_guidance_note_-_finalVF
Business Growth Hub:
www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus/resources/2020/03/coronavirus-business-support-webinar-series
Food & Drink – advice and guidance:
https://marketingstockport.co.uk/news/food-delivery-and-takeaway-guidance-for-food-businesses-looking-to-diversify/
Health – updates from NHS
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news/
Health– Shielding the most vulnerable
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19
Health – Dedicated helpline to support vulnerable residents in Stockport:
Support can be accessed by calling 0161 217 6046 Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.
Health – Dedicated health & wellbeing services:
24/7 mental health helpline & safe haven for anyone over the age of 18 in Stockport (0800 138 7276).
Health – An Emotional Wellbeing Hub which provides information, advice, and guidance for anyone up to the age of 25 for emotional wellbeing and mental health concerns. 0161 217 6028 – 8.30am-5pm Mon – Thurs 8.30am-4.30pm on Friday.
Health – the big white wall
The Big White Wall offers 24/7 anonymous support via a digital emotional wellbeing and mental health service, offering peer support for anyone over the age of 16, support from trained clinicians alongside a range of helpful tools and resources.
Media and Marketing:
Prolific North are publishing daily updates on their blog as to how Covid-19 is impacting on the marketing, media and technology industries
Travel:
https://media.northernrailway.co.uk/news/coronavirus-travel-information
Recruitment: – DWP and Universal Credit http://news.dwp.gov.uk/dwplz/lz.aspx?p1=MQsDU1NjQ5MlM2OTA0OjNCNDJBOEZCRTJDOUJEOTc1ODQ0RTRCRDNDNzk4QUNF-&CC=&p=0
Retail: An update form British Retail Consortium
https://brc.org.uk/news/corporate-affairs/coronavirus-latest-retailer-activity/
Employment: – Stockport Jobs Match
Community – Guidance for businesses seeking to help voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
How businesses can offer services, funds and volunteers to civil society during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Find out more information here.
Employment – Useful information for the Self-Employed:
News and Guidance for the self-employed:
Concerned how Coronavirus might impact you and your business?
Please get in touch with Enterprising You and you will be connected to someone who can help. You can also access information and guidance including the latest Government updates via www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus
Can you claim back Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay in the Rebate Scheme
From Tuesday 26 May 2020, small and medium-sized employers, with fewer than 250 employees, will be able to apply to recover the costs of paying coronavirus-related Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) payments they have made to their employees.
Stockport park unveils tribute to young community hero 
Research finds Covid-19 has not fundamentally changed the UK labour market 
Government sets out ‘Living with COVID’ next steps from 1st April