UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,387,820 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 1,882 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 2,186 (102 fewer than previous day)
New deaths across UK: 10
Total UK deaths: 127,270
England Cases per 100,000: 19 per 100,000 (daily change: -1)
R number in UK: 0.7 to 1.0
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 32,849,223 – latest daily figure
Total 2nd doses: 9,930,846
Daily 1st doses: 139,445
There have been almost 4.4 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and sadly over 127,000 people have died. Almost 33 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine. Data shows almost 10 million people have had their second jab. The average number of daily infections in the UK has continued to decline but is flattening. A further 1,882 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 0.7 to 1.0 and the growth rate range for England is -6% to -1% per day as of 16 April 2021. Following the announcement of plans to ease of lockdown, the roadmap can be found in full here.
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 – updated to include a summary of rule changes from 12th April
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
HEADLINES & UPDATES:
95% mortgage – new government scheme launches today
From today buyers will be able to purchase properties worth up to £600,000 with just a five per cent mortgage, under a government guarantee scheme. First time buyers and existing homeowners will be able to take advantage and a growing number of mortgage lenders have come forward to take part – most recently Halifax, which over the weekend revealed it would launch its 95 per cent deals today as well. Zoopla says greater availability of 95 per cent mortgages will have the biggest benefits for buyers in lower value markets in northern England and Scotland.
EY: CEO’s understand transformation cannot be delayed following Covid pandemic
“Technology has been the common denominator for most organization’s resilience amid the pandemic. Interestingly, the traditional and analogue businesses, that were initially struggling at the start of the crisis, have accelerated the adoption of new digital technology and led the spend on tech and data. We are now seeing more of a hybrid business model as CEOs continue seek to plan for any future partial or full lockdowns. As vaccine roll out programs start to bring hope that we may be turning the tide, we are now seeing businesses shift their focus to assess how they can ‘win-in-turn’ and this is driving investment plans over the next 12 months.”
More than two-thirds (68%) of CEO respondents from the world’s largest companies say that they plan to take on a major investment in data and technology over the next 12 months, while 61% plan to undertake a major transformation initiative over the same period, according to the global EY CEO Imperative Study 2021.The survey of 305 CEOs (from the Forbes Global 2000) also found that within three years, 42% of respondents expect to make changes to their organization’s risk management processes.
UK aid and Unilever reach one billion people with global hygiene campaign to tackle Covid-19
A hygiene campaign launched by the Government and Unilever to tackle Covid-19 has now reached one billion people.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 20,868 to 18th April
Cases in the latest week: 95 (28 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 711 to April 2nd
Cases per 100,000: 32 per 100,000 (England area avg: 19)
R number in North West: 0.6 – 0.9
Number of 1st dose of vaccine: 147,359 people have received 1st dose vaccine to 11th April
REGIONAL & LOCAL NEWS:
Scroll down for the latest Coronavirus Grant news for Stockport based businesses
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS)helps businesses reopen safely
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) is reminding local businesses across the city-region about its specialist fire safety team that can help ensure premises remain fire safe as well as Covid-safe. As non-essential retail re-opens in line with the Government’s roadmap, the local fire service is reminding businesses to ensure their fire risk assessments are up-to-date with any changes brought about by implementing Covid-safe practices. It is important that when changes in measures to control the spread of Covid-19 are implemented following Government guidance, they are also considered in the context of your premises’ fire risk assessments to help manage and mitigate the risk of fire as much as much as reasonably practicable. Any significant changes identified should be recorded where necessary and actioned as required within appropriate timescales.
Greater Manchester employers urged to upskill managers to better support workers with conflict, wellbeing & progression
New guide highlights behaviour traits all good managers must adopt as its revealed that ‘management style’ is a main cause of stress for many
Three leading organisations – with a shared purpose of driving good and fair work opportunities in Greater Manchester – have collaborated to produce a new guide full of insight and resources to upskill line managers and support an increasingly diverse and remote workforce. According to the guide, only 40% of line managers receive any people management training and ‘management style’ is a main cause of work?related stress for many. Soft skills in hard times: why good people management matters more than ever’ – developed by the CIPD, Greater Manchester Employment Charter and ACAS – highlights the skills and behaviours managers must develop to engage staff in productive work, support their health and wellbeing, as well as encourage learning and development and an inclusive workplace culture, where conflict is resolved quickly and compassionately. According to the guide, five key behaviours that all good line managers must look to adopt are: ‘be open, fair and consistent’; ‘handle conflict and problems’; ‘provide knowledge, clarity and guidance’; ‘build and sustain relationships’; and ‘support development’. Download a free copy of ‘Soft skills in hard times: why good people management matters more than ever’ from www.gmgoodemploymentcharter.co.uk
Universal Covid-19 testing now available free for all Stockport adults
All adults in Stockport are now able to access rapid Covid-19 testing, even if you do not have symptoms. Lateral flow testing gives a result in just 30 minutes, and can be taken at testing sites or collected to be taken at home. Adults will be able to claim two free tests every week, as the government prepares for the next stage in its roadmap out of lockdown, which includes the return of non-essential shops, gyms, salons and outdoor hospitality. Need a rapid lateral flow test? Find out where your local testing site is, or see the collection points available across the borough here. Alternatively, look out for our Mobile Testing Unit – an upcycled yellow school bus that offers safe testing at various spots across Stockport twice a week.
You should only get a lateral flow test if you do not have symptoms. If you have any symptoms of coronavirus: a new continuous cough, a high temperature or loss of taste or smell, you still need to get a PCR test. This must be taken at a test centre You should self-isolate until the results come through. If you need to book a PCR test, you can do so here. Regular testing will help us get back to normal more safely. Rates are continuing to fall in Stockport, with rates currently at 34.1 per 100,000, or around 14 new cases each day. This is slightly below the average for Greater Manchester. We need to continue to act responsibly and follow the latest advice to keep our community safe as more mixing is allowed. Do your bit to keep Stockport safe. Make sure you’re taking advantage of the new regular testing scheme for all adults.
MEN: Infection rates fall across all but two boroughs in Greater Manchester
Stockport is an area where the trend is down. The latest infection rate here is 32.4 cases per 100,000 people. There were 95 cases recorded in Stockport, which is 28 fewer than the previous week – a fall of 23 per cent. Latest figures show coronavirus infection rates have gone up in two Greater Manchester boroughs – Oldham and Trafford. The weekly rates have fallen in seven areas and stayed level in one borough – Manchester. As restrictions begin to ease, Oldham continues to have the highest coronavirus infection rate in Greater Manchester. The lowest infection rate is in Bury, where the rate is 25.7 cases per 100,000 people. In Greater Manchester as a whole, the infection rate is now 42.8 cases per 100,000 population.
Stockport puts call out for brownfield sites
Stockport Council has put a call out for brownfield sites, to help support work on the new Local Plan and earmark unused sites suitable for future development. The council want to hear about the sites across the borough which members of the local community believe should be considered before we need to make decisions in respect of other land in Stockport. They may be derelict or underutilised sites, vacant commercial premises or an occupied building which has a use which doesn’t fit particularly well in an area.
Stockport Paralympian crosses the line for his vaccine
Great Britain Paracyclist Fin Graham wheeled up on his bike to get his Covid vaccination, with the message that being vaccinated gives him peace of mind.
The elite athlete from the Scottish Highlands, moved to Cheadle, Stockport in 2018. He trains with British Cycling at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester and already has two World Cup Paracycling gold medals to show for it.
Fin, aged 21, was born with two club feet, has no calf muscle in his right leg and limited movement in his ankles. Three years ago, he was diagnosed with Lupus, an auto-immune disease.
SECTOR SPECIFIC CORONAVIRUS-RELATED NEWS:
BUSINESS:
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. A YouTube video about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Job Retention Scheme and a webinar for Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) – fourth grant have been added.
Coronavirus grant funding: local authority payments to small and medium businesses
Local authorities have received and distributed funding to support small and medium businesses in England during coronavirus – updated data on payments made by local authorities under the Local Restrictions Support Grants and Additional Restrictions Grants schemes.
Staying COVID-secure notice
Notice to display to show you have made your workplace COVID-secure – revised to add ventilation. You may wish to update your notice to confirm that you’re following the latest guidance.
Super Deduction new capital allowance – how it impacts your business
The ‘super deduction’ allows companies to cut their tax bill by up to 25p for every £1 they invest. The ‘Super Deduction – How it impacts your business’ webinar will help business owners cut through the jargon and benefit from this new capital allowance offer. The event takes place at 10am on 22 April, with registrations open now at here COMMUNITY:
Home use of ultraviolet radiation disinfection products
A study on a range of products which were promoted for reducing the risk of catching COVID-19.
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
Test and Trace Support Payment scheme privacy notice
Information on how and why personal data may be used in the Test and Trace Support Payment scheme – updated with correction: any payment made under the Test and Trace Payment Support scheme is subject to tax, but not (as previously stated) National Insurance contributions.
COVID-19 vaccination: guide for adults
Information for eligible adults on COVID-19 vaccination – added updated phase 2 leaflet: those who cannot have the vaccine section updated.
JCVI issues new advice on COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant women
The JCVI has advised that pregnant women should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the rest of the population, based on their age and clinical risk group.
Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make one
This page explains when to wear a face covering, exemptions from wearing one, and how to make your own face covering – updated to remove the guidance on table service in indoor seating areas in restaurants, pubs, bars and takeaway services.
(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do
Coronavirus restrictions remain in place. Find out what you can and cannot do.
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 22 March and 29 March 2021.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT:
Event Research Programme – ministerial directions
Ministerial directions in relation to the Event Research Programme pilot events.
Information about the Events Research Programme (ERP), paving the way for larger audiences to attend sport, theatre and gigs safely this summer
Information for attendees and those hosting the ERP Pilot Events – outdoor gig at Sefton Park, Liverpool added to the list of ERP events.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): health and wellbeing of the adult social care workforce
Advice for those working in adult social care on managing your mental health and how employers can take care of the wellbeing of their staff during the coronavirus outbreak – updated to reflect that people are no longer being advised to shield, that the CARE Workforce app is now closed, and the changes made as part of ‘Step 2’ of the government’s ‘COVID-19 response – spring 2021’ roadmap. Also added a link to the Skills for Care Workforce Wellbeing Resource Finder.
COVID-19: how to work safely in care homes
Guidance for those working in care homes providing information on how to work safely during this period of sustained transmission of COVID-19.
Vivaldi 2: coronavirus (COVID-19) care homes study report
This study provides a summary of antigen testing in all care homes for those over 65 years old in England and survey results of managers of those homes.
COVID-19: migrant health guide
Advice and guidance for healthcare practitioners on the health needs of migrant patients – added additional translated resources for COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccination: guide for adults
Information for eligible adults on COVID-19 vaccination – added updated phase 2 leaflet: those who cannot have the vaccine section updated.
Regulatory approval of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna – added an updated Public Assessment Report following grant of Conditional Marketing Authorisation.
COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination information for public health professionals – updated to incorporate recommendations for phase 2 of the programme and additional information on the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
HOSPITALITY & LEISURE:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reopening outdoor hospitality safely
Letter from Secretary of State Robert Jenrick to local authorities on government measures to support hospitality businesses to reopen safely.
JUDICIARY:
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. Update for week commencing Monday 19 April 2021 published.
LEGAL:
Businesses shun litigation during pandemic but expected to rise in 2021
Businesses have avoided using litigation to resolve commercial disputes during the COVID-19 pandemic, instead turning to negotiation and mediation, although that is likely to change this year, according to new research published today by EY. The research suggests that UK companies have heeded official guidance, released by the Cabinet Office in May 2020, which called on corporates to steer clear of litigation throughout the pandemic. Almost two-thirds (63%) of the more than 100 FTSE350 and private companies surveyed by YouGov for EY said they had adopted a more conciliatory approach to business disputes since the pandemic began.
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Workforce Capacity Fund for adult social care
Information for local authorities and adult social care providers on the £120 million Workforce Capacity Fund during coronavirus (COVID-19).
Local Restrictions Support Grants (LRSG), Restart Grant, Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG): guidance for local authorities
This is guidance for local authorities on paying grants to support businesses during national lockdown periods and periods of local restrictions – Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG): scheme definitions added for ‘spend’ and ‘validated attempt’.
Welcome Back Fund
Guidance to help local authorities and partners to deliver activities supported through the Welcome Back Fund. This funding builds on the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund announced in May 2020.
PROPERTY:
Asking prices hit another all-time high
Another week begins, another record tumbles – Rightmove this morning reports a monthly price surge of 2.1 per cent has propelled asking prices to a record high.
The national average now stands at £327,797. This figure shatters the previous record, set in October, by over £4,000. The jump comes as buyer demand sets another new record, chasing the lowest ever proportion of property available to buy.
This is now the fastest-selling market that Rightmove has measured since its records began.
TRAVEL:
Self-isolation compliance checks after international travel
Information on the self-isolation compliance checks carried out by the government on people who have entered England following international travel – clarified that staff carrying out self-isolation compliance checks will ask to see your driver’s licence or passport to confirm your identity.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.
Visiting a passport office during the coronavirus pandemic
Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for customers visiting Her Majesty’s Passport Office.
Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals
Information on the 2 tests you must book, pay for and take during your mandatory 10-day quarantine period after arriving in England, including how to book.
CORONAVIRUS GRANTS FOR BUSINESSES IN STOCKPORT:
Discretionary Grants summary:
As at 15/04/21
- Received: 2,439
- Processed: 2,303 (94%)
- Grants Funding Issued: £6,917,214
Stockport Council release 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.
Eligible businesses:
Non-essential retail
These are businesses that are open to the public and used for retail sale or hire of goods or services. This includes businesses that:
- were required to close during national restrictions from January 2021
- sell directly to consumer
Hospitality
These are businesses that provide a venue for the sale of food and drink. This includes businesses that:
- offer in-person food and drink services to the general public
- provide food and/or drink to be consumed on the premises, including outdoors
Leisure
These are businesses that provide opportunities, experiences and facilities, in particular for culture, recreation, entertainment, celebratory events, days and nights out, betting and gaming. This includes businesses that:
- provide in-person experiences in addition to goods
- rely on seasonal labour
- operate with irregular hours during the day, night and weekends
Accommodation
These are businesses that provide lodging for holiday, travel and other purposes.
Gym and sports
These are businesses where physical exercise, training, group sporting and athletic activities takes place. This may be on an individual or group basis, using exercise equipment or open floor space. This includes businesses that:
- offer in-person exercise and sport activities to the general public
- are open to members of the public paying an entry or membership fee
- offer exercise classes or activities
Personal care
These are businesses that provide a service, treatment or activity for the purposes of personal beauty, hair, grooming, body care and aesthetics, and wellbeing. This includes businesses that:
- deliver in-person holistic, beauty and hair treatments
- provide services such as tattoos and piercings
Businesses are not eligible if they:
- do not have a business property and do not pay business rates
- are in liquidation, dissolved, struck off or subject to a striking off notice
There are also businesses in strand two that are not eligible, these include:
- takeaway premises
- coach tour operators and tour operators
- dental services, opticians, chiropractors, osteopaths and other medical/health services
How much will businesses will receive?
Strand one
The Restart Grant will support non-essential retail premises with one-off grants of up to £6,000.
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 two
The Restart Grant will also support hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym business premises with one-off grants of up to £18,000.
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 will close on 30/04/21 and no further applications will be accepted for these original ARG schemes after that date.
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.
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.co.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.co.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.co.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.co.uk asking for the eligibility and application guidance and application form for the Stockport Economic Recovery Locality Boost Grant.
Applications for this grant scheme will close on 17/05/2021 (please note this is earlier than for the other schemes).
Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
Covid-19 Webinars:
Transition to Teach host webinar to aid HR with redeployment
Transition to Teach are delivering a free online presentation on Wednesday, 21st April at 12.00, aimed specifically at HR staff with redeployment responsibilities. Places can be booked at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/transition-to-teach-outplacement-support-tickets-145448523449?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
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.
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