UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,450,777 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 1,926 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 991 (68 fewer than previous day)
New deaths across UK: 4
Total UK deaths: 127,679
England Cases per 100,000: 17 per 100,000 (daily change: 0)
R number in UK: 0.8 to 1.1
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 36,573,354
Total 2nd doses: 20,103,658
Daily 1st doses: 237,331
Daily 2nd doses: 391,246
There have been over 4.4 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and more than 127,600 people have died. More than 55 million vaccine doses have been received across the UK to 16th May and more than 36.5 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine. Over 20 million people have had both their first and second jab. The average number of daily infections in the UK has continued to decline but there are areas with a rising number of new cases. A further 1,926 confirmed cases in the UK were announced by the government yesterday, Sunday.
The R value and growth rate in England
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19). The R range for England is 0.8 to 1.1 Following the announcement of plans to ease of lockdown, the roadmap can be found in full here.
National lockdown: Stay at Home
Find out what you can and cannot do
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
HEADLINES & UPDATES:
England enters Step 3 out of lockdown as Prime Minister urges caution
A lifting of some restrictions means many businesses in England can open today for the first time in months: pubs, restaurants and cafés can serve customers indoors with table service; gyms, soft play centres and some indoor classes can now resume. Millions of people can now socialise indoors in limited numbers, hug loved ones and travel abroad. The ban on foreign travel has been lifted and replaced with new rules. But Boris Johnson has asked that people continue to play their part in stopping coronavirus:
“Together we have reached another milestone in our road map out of lockdown, but we must take this next step with a heavy dose of caution.
“Everyone must play their part by getting tested twice a week, coming forward for your vaccine when called, and remembering hands, face, space and fresh air.
“I urge everyone to be cautious and take responsibility when enjoying new freedoms today in order to keep the virus at bay.”
Travellers will now be able to visit 12 countries on the government’s green list, including Portugal and Israel, without isolating on their return.
But most tourist destinations remain on the amber and red lists, meaning travellers must quarantine when they get back. And that has hit demand for holidays.
Online travel agent Thomas Cook said the number of people booking to travel abroad was “still small”. It said 75% of its bookings were for Portugal, although Thomas Cook customers planning to jet off this week numbered only in their hundreds. On Friday, Portugal announced that travellers from the UK would be allowed to enter its borders provided they could show a negative PCR test result from the previous 72 hours.
- The rules for holidays in green list countries such as Portugal
- Portugal to allow UK tourists from Monday
- Public must play their part as lockdown eases – PM
Protect yourself as we enter step 3 of lockdown easing
Including remember the benefits of fresh air and being outdoors; keep indoor areas well ventilated; think about how many people are in your office or room – try to limit numbers where possible; get your vaccine when you can and remember to get your second vaccine as soon as it is offered; get a free test for yourself, twice a week and remember to still follow the hands, face and space rule.
Step 3 COVID-19 restrictions posters: 17 May 2021
A poster displaying information about COVID-19 restrictions in England from 17 May.
More than 20 million UK adults receive both doses of COVID-19 vaccine
More than 36 million people in the UK have been vaccinated with 1 dose and 20 million have received 2 doses.
Summit to build global confidence in vaccines to be convened by the UK Government
The UK Government will convene the world’s first Global Vaccine Confidence Summit in an effort to drive vaccine uptake in the fight against the Covid.
Football stars hail COVID-19 vaccine as the ‘best defence’ of 2021
Harry Redknapp, Chris Kamara and Eniola Aluko among the football stars urging people to get COVID-19 vaccine in a new short film.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 21,181 to 14th May
Cases in the latest week: 106 (40 more cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 720 to April 30th
Cases per 100,000: 36 per 100,000 week 4th to 10th May
R number in North West: 0.8 – 1.1
Number of 1st dose of vaccine: 161,222 people have received 1st dose vaccine to 9th May
Scroll down for the latest Coronavirus Grant news for Stockport based businesses
REGIONAL & LOCAL NEWS:
North West business activity rises at fastest rate since 2017
Firms in the North West recorded a sharp and accelerated increase in business activity in April, in a sign of the region’s recovery gathering momentum as COVID-19 restrictions were loosened, latest UK regional PMI data from NatWest showed.
The headline North West Business Activity Index – a seasonally adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors – climbed from 56.5 in March to 59.7 in April.
This was its highest reading since December 2017 signalling one of the fastest rates of growth since the start of the survey in 1997.
Emirates Old Trafford will become a cashless venue when crowds return.
The move will come into effect from today (17 May), when Lancashire’s Second XI host Middlesex. It will then apply to all future matches. The move also applies to the venue’s non-matchday conference and events business and the on-site Hilton Garden Inn hotel. Lancashire Cricket operations director Steve Davies said:
“There are several reasons behind Emirates Old Trafford becoming a cashless venue, the main one being that the use of contactless card payments significantly minimises the potential for spreading the virus.” Read on
Employer event aims to educate employers on taking on ex-offenders
Totally Training are hosting an event aimed at dispelling the myths around employing ex-offenders. Interested employers are invited to reserve their place for free on Thursday 20th May between 2pm and 3pm via Eventbrite
Surge testing to be deployed in Blackburn with Darwen
Working in partnership with the local authority, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the Blackburn area.
Stockport Has a New Covid-19 Vaccination Site
A new Covid-19 vaccination site has opened in Stockport this week, operated by Scorah Chemists Bramhall. Brookdale Club and Theatre, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AB, will host the vaccination site and it is essential to book an appointment in advance. People aged 38 and over, health and care workers, unpaid carers and those with underlying health conditions are invited to book their Covid-19 jab.
TfGM: Business guidance on travel and commuting in Greater Manchester
As our economy and society reopen and more people return to the transport network it is important it is both safe and supports the changing demands of future travel patterns. Transport for Greater Manchester’s priority is working with businesses so your employees and customers can return with confidence and make informed travel decisions. On their website, you will find transport information both on how to reopen your business safely during the government roadmap and advice to encourage long-term sustainable travel change for both your employees and customers.
Government advice is that people should:
- Travel safely, plan ahead and allow extra time for your journeys.
- Continue to work from home if you can.
- Social distancing remains in place on public transport, meaning capacity is limited, you must also continue to wear a face covering, unless exempt.
- Consider walking or cycling, particularly for short trips.
This advice will be reviewed and updated in line with the roadmap to recovery, which could see all restrictions lifted from 21 June. To enable social distancing on public transport we need to ensure the limited capacity on public transport at busier times is available for people who have no other options. See TfGM’s Coronavirus page for the latest customer guidance on travelling across the network.
!! Grant funding for local organisations and associations to host events!!
As Many areas of Stockport have been unusually quiet with reduced visitor numbers and many events cancelled due to the impact of the coronavirus and subsequent lockdowns. As the situation around lockdown eases, local organisations and community groups are being encouraged to apply for grant funding that will help them to host events and attract visitors in an attempt to support businesses and boost the local economy. Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
SECTOR SPECIFIC CORONAVIRUS-RELATED NEWS:
BUSINESS:
HMRC: Are you re-opening your business, or planning to do so shortly?
If you’re bringing back your employees on a part time basis, you can claim flexible furlough for them under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). For the latest information, join our live webinar. You can ask questions throughout using the on-screen text box, although we can’t discuss personal circumstances.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme webinar – Register here
There are useful handouts for you to download and you will also receive a link to a recording after the live webinar. If you’re a small or medium-sized employer with under 250 employees, you may also be eligible for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme. View our recorded webinar about the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme on HMRC’s YouTube channel, for further guidance on the scheme, including who you can claim for, how to claim and what you may be entitled to. HMRC will continue to review their webinars to give the most up-to-date information, and welcome your feedback at the end of the session too.
Saturday Economist: Double Figure Growth Possible Next year …
Andy Haldane Chief Economist of The Bank of England was writing in the Daily Mail this week. “A year from now, it is realistic to expect growth to be in ‘double digits’ such will be the tennis ball bounce in the UK economy”. The Bank of England is forecasting growth of over 7% this year. That’s already a stretch. Ten per cent plus growth next year would be pure fantasy land special.
Economists are beginning to talk of an economy in double figures but more for inflation than GDP expansion. CPI inflation hit 4.2% in the USA in April. Producer prices hit 6.8% in China, 6.2% in the USA and 5.9% in the UK, with more to come in next week’s UK data. In the UK our inflation cost models suggest inflation will move to 2.5% real soon. Our monetary models suggest inflation will rise to 4.0% next year. Central banks risk falling behind the curve in the pressure to increase rates. Not least in the UK where retail spending is now above pre Covid levels.
Read more from John Ashcroft, the Saturday Economist
UK employers pledge flexibility during COVID-19 vaccine rollout
Businesses across the country have pledged to be flexible to enable staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19. IKEA, Asda, Slimming World, Metro Bank, Procter & Gamble UK, Santander, Nationwide, Severn Trent and Merlin Entertainments are among the businesses that have committed to be as flexible as possible in letting employees have time off work to get the vaccine. Industry bodies, such as the British Beer and Pub Association and Builders Merchants Federation, have also pledged to support the ongoing rollout of the vaccine.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from quarantine, passenger locator form or COVID testing requirements.
Restrictions on businesses and venues in England
This guidance details the steps to reopen certain businesses and venues in England – updated in line with step 3 guidance changes.
COMMUNITY:
COVID-19 vaccination status: what your confirmation letter tells you
Translated versions of the non-personal information in the letter confirming that someone has had the full course of the COVID-19 vaccine.
NHS Test and Trace: what to do if you are contacted
An overview of NHS Test and Trace, including what happens if you test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive – updated to reflect the COVID-19 response – spring 2021 roadmap changes from 17 May.
COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship and special religious services and gatherings during the pandemic
Guidance to provide advice on how places of worship can open, for limited permitted activities, in a manner that is safe and in line with national lockdown restrictions – “COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship” updated to incorporate the adjustments set out in step 3 of the roadmap to reopening.
Enabling safe and effective volunteering during coronavirus (COVID-19)
This guidance aims to help organisations and groups understand how to safely and effectively involve volunteers during the pandemic.
COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable
Information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 – updated information on meeting friends and family inside and outside the home.
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.
Making a support bubble with another household
How you can safely expand the group of people you have close contact with during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic – updated to reflect changes in taking step 3 of the roadmap.Making a childcare bubble with another household
How you can get informal childcare for anyone under 14 from friends and family you do not live with – updated to reflect changes in taking step 3 of the roadmap
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
EDUCATION:
Reported coronavirus (COVID-19) notifications by registered early years and childcare settings
This data is published fortnightly. It gives the number of registered early years and childcare providers reporting one or more confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) by week – added data for weeks beginning 19 and 26 April.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
Arrangements for visiting out of the care home
Sets out how care homes can support residents on visits outside of the care home – ‘Visits out of care homes: summary of guidance’. From 17 May 2021, care home residents may leave their care home to spend time outdoors (avoiding crowded spaces) and take part in outdoor exercise not involving close contact with others. Residents will also be able to go to medical appointments (excluding overnight stays in hospital), a workplace, educational setting, and day centres without having to self-isolate on their return.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): health, care and volunteer workers parking pass and concessions
Guidance and terms of use for the parking pass and concessions for COVID-19 health, care and volunteer workers – updated to provide notice of the decision to withdraw the emergency parking pass guidance by 21 June 2021 as part of the government’s roadmap for lifting COVID-19 restrictions.
Visiting arrangements in care homes
Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents.
Most vulnerable offered second dose of COVID-19 vaccine earlier to help protect against variants
Action is part of measures to tackle rising cases of the Indian – B1.617.2 – variant of concern.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for homecare workers: information for agencies
Sets out how homecare agencies in England can order regular tests for their homecare (domiciliary care) staff.
COVID-19: migrant health guide
Advice and guidance for healthcare practitioners on the health needs of migrant patients – added translated resources about COVID-19 restrictions and vaccination guidance.
JUDICIARY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and prisons
Guidance for families and friends of people in prison in England and Wales during the coronavirus pandemic.
HMCTS weekly operational summary on courts and tribunals during coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This page provides a weekly summary of the HM Courts and Tribunals Service operational position during the coronavirus pandemic – updated for week commencing Monday 17 May 2021
PROPERTY:
COVID-19 and renting: guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities
Non-statutory guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities in the private and social rented sectors in the context of Coronavirus (COVID-19) – updated in line with the latest government guidance on how the rules changed on 17 May.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Planning Inspectorate guidance – updated 17 May 2021
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and guidance from government, the Planning Inspectorate has published guidance on site visits, hearings, inquiries, and events – Planning Inspectorate guidance and booklets – updated 17 May 2021
SPORT & LEISURE:
Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Providers of grassroots sport and sport facilities – Updated to reflect Step 3 of the roadmap.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): grassroots sports guidance for safe provision including team sport, contact combat sport and organised sport events
Information on how to safely provide grassroots sport and physical activity during COVID restrictions, including the team sport framework, contact combat sport framework, and advice on organised sport participation events
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on the phased return of elite sport
Guidance for elite athletes and coaches on the phased return of elite sport – updated Stage Five (Return to competition: safe return of spectators) to include information about Step 3 of the roadmap.
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): General Aviation
Guidance on General Aviation (GA) flying during the coronavirus outbreak – roadmap out of lockdown Step 3 update.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer transport guidance for operators
Safer working principles and risk assessment for transport operators and organisations.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): taxis and PHVs
Actions that drivers, operators and owners of taxis or private hire vehicles (PHVs) can take to protect against coronavirus – updated to reflect roadmap out of lockdown.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.
Apply for the COVID-19 bus service support grant
Information on applying for COVID-19 funding support for commercial bus operators in England.
TRAVEL:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Test to Release for international travel
Pay for a COVID-19 test to find out if you can reduce your quarantine period after international travel.
Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad
How to demonstrate your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination status to show that you’ve had the full course of the COVID-19 vaccine and access this status when travelling abroad – this page has been updated to reflect the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccination status service and includes information on obtaining information in foreign languages and alternative formats.
Red, amber and green list rules for entering England
Countries rated as red, amber or green for Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the rules you must follow to enter England – new green list of countries and territories with Australia, Brunei, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Iceland, Israel and Jerusalem, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands and St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha moved from the amber list.
Day 2 and day 8 testing for international arrivals: minimum standards for providers
Sets out the minimum standards that private sector providers must meet for the COVID-19 tests for people arriving in England – updated the requirements to reflect the introduction of green list and amber list countries.
Quarantine and testing if you’ve been in an amber list country
What to do before and after you arrive in England if you’ve been in an amber list country in the 10 days before you arrive.
Booking and staying in a quarantine hotel if you’ve been in a red list country
How to book a quarantine hotel and coronavirus (COVID-19) tests if you’ve been in a red list country in the 10 days before you arrive in England.
Travel abroad and coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for British people travelling abroad during the coronavirus pandemic, if they are legally permitted to travel under current UK COVID-19 restrictions – updated to reflect new rules for international travel from 17 May.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer air travel for passengers
How to travel safely in airports and on aircraft during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Foreign travel insurance
If you’re travelling abroad, it’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance before you go – updated COVID-19 section on new rules for international travel from 17 May.
CORONAVIRUS GRANTS FOR BUSINESSES IN STOCKPORT:
!! Please note – the Economic Recovery Fund ARG Localities Grant application deadline has been extended to 31/05/21
Discretionary Grants summary:
As at 13/05/2021
- Received: 2,745
- Processed: 2,670 (97%)
- Grants Funding Issued: £9,449,415
Stockport Council details of Government’s Restart Grant
The Restart Grant scheme supports businesses in the non-essential retail, hospitality, leisure, personal care and accommodation sectors with a one-off grant, to reopen safely as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
The Restart Grant will be split into two strands:
– Strand one will be for non-essential retail businesses that may be entitled to a one-off cash grant of up to £6,000.
– Strand two will be for hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym businesses that may be entitled to a one-off cash grant of up to £18,000.
Strand 1 Businesses that have a rateable value:
- of £15,000 or less on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £2,667
- between £15,001 and £50,999 on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £4,000
- of £51,000 or more on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £6,000
Strand 2 Businesses that have a rateable value:
- of £15,000 or less on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £8,000
- between £15,001 and £50,999 on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £12,000
- of £51,000 or more on 1 April 2021 will receive a payment of £18,000
Discretionary Grant Scheme – Additional Restrictions Grant
The Council launched an Economic Recovery Fund on 26/03/21, which provides 5 new business grants through the Additional Restrictions Grant funding.
Applications for the current Additional Restrictions Grant scheme, and the Micro-Business grant scheme are now closed.
The new Economic Recovery Fund ARG schemes are:
The Stockport Economic Recovery Boost Grant
This grant will be provided to businesses that have been successful in applying for the original ARG scheme for closed businesses that have separate commercial premises with ongoing costs. Businesses do not need to apply for this scheme as their details are already held and will be used to identify eligible businesses which will be contacted during April 2021 about their further grant payment under this scheme.
The Stockport Economic Recovery Market Place & Underbanks Independent Retailer Boost Grant
This grant is to support smaller, independent retail operators with premises in the Market Place and Underbanks area only, to reopen and restart their businesses.
This is a one-off fixed grant of £3,000 for each business that successfully applies.
Businesses that wish to apply should email skladgrants@stockport.gov.uk asking for the eligibility and application guidance and application form for the Stockport Economic Recovery Market Place & Underbanks Independent Retailer Boost Grant. Applications for this grant scheme will close on 31/05/2021.
The Stockport Economic Recovery Hospitality Sector Boost Grant
This grant is for supporting the reopening and restart of hospitality sector businesses with their own premises in Stockport.
This is a one-off fixed grant of £5,000 for each business that successfully applies. Businesses that wish to apply should email skladgrants@stockport.gov.uk asking for the eligibility and application guidance and application form for the Stockport Economic Recovery Hospitality Sector Boost Grant. Applications for this grant scheme will close on 31/05/2021.
The Stockport Economic Recovery Covid Capital Grant
This grant is for businesses to apply for to make changes to premises and/or to buy additional kit to support reopening and operating in a covid secure way.
Businesses that wish to apply should email skladgrants@stockport.gov.uk asking for the eligibility and application guidance and application form for the Stockport Economic Recovery Covid Capital Grant. Applications for this grant scheme will close on 31/05/2021.
The Stockport Economic Recovery Locality Boost Grant
This grant is for district centre trading associations, or their equivalent, to bid in to for their local areas to run stimulus events to drive local footfall and customers into local areas to use local businesses that are reopening.
Where localities do not have training associations that can lead a bid, an equivalent lead accountable body or local business will need to be agreed by businesses in that locality to lead as the single point of contact for their area.
There will only be one application accepted and one grant, if successful, provided per locality. Businesses that wish to apply should email skladgrants@stockport.gov.uk asking for the eligibility and application guidance and application form for the Stockport Economic Recovery Locality Boost Grant.
!! Please note – the Economic Recovery Fund ARG Localities Grant application deadline has been extended to 31/05/21
Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
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:
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:
Useful Government links for easing out of lockdown:
- Roadmap – Spring 2021: including the easing of restrictions from 29 March
- Covid-19 Vaccine
- Workplace Testing
- Back To School translations
- Stay Home translations
Coronavirus Roadmap out of lockdown – what and when?
From 29 March:
- People will be allowed to meet outside, either with one other household or within the “rule of six”, including in private gardens
- The stay at home rule will end, but the government will urge people to stay local as much as possible
- Outdoor sport facilities will reopen, including golf courses and tennis and basketball courts, and formally organised outdoor sports can restart
- Weddings attended by up to six people can take place in any circumstances
Stage two (no earlier than 12 April):
- All shops allowed to open, along with close-contact services, including hairdressers and beauty salons (including in people’s homes)
- Restaurants and pubs allowed to serve food and alcohol to customers sitting outdoors Gyms and spas can reopen, as can zoos, theme parks, libraries and community centres
- Members of the same household can take a holiday in the UK in self-contained accommodation
- Weddings attended by up to 15 people can take place
Stage three (no earlier than 17 May):
- People can meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors
- Six people or two households can meet indoors
- Pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues can seat customers indoors
- Up to 30 people can attend weddings or other life events, like christenings
- Remaining outdoor entertainment, such as outdoor theatres and cinemas can open
- Indoor entertainment such as museums, theatres, cinemas and children’s play areas can open
- Performances and large events can restart, but with limits on audience numbers
- Hotels, hostels and B&Bs can reopen
- International leisure travel may resume
- Adult indoor group sports and exercise classes can restart
Stage four (no earlier than 21 June):
- All legal limits on social contact will be removed
- No legal limits on the number of people who can attend weddings, funerals and other life events
- Nightclubs will be allowed to reopen
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:
- Extending the length of the loan from six years to 10;
- Making interest-only payments for six months, then repaying the principal on a phased basis with other interest-only periods;
- 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.
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.
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 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.
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme terms and conditions
Kickstart Scheme terms and conditions for employers and gateways receiving the Kickstart Scheme grant from the Department for Work and Pensions.
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.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant extension
Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can get.
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
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.
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.
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
Stockport Council’s FREE job matching website helps 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
Stockport Council – Health & Mental Well-being https://www.stockport.gov.uk/showcase/coronavirus
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.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
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
Business Growth Hub:
www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus/resources/2020/03/coronavirus-business-support-webinar-series
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 SchemeFrom 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. Health updates:
Health – updates from NHS
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news/
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.
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.