UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,390,783 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 2,963 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 2,186 (102 fewer than previous day)
New deaths across UK: 4
Total UK deaths: 127,274
England Cases per 100,000: 18 per 100,000 (daily change: -1)
R number in UK: 0.7 to 1.0
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 32,932,448 – latest daily figure
Total 2nd doses: over 10,000,000
Daily 1st doses: 83,225
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:
BBC: Under-35’s bearing brunt of job crisis
Younger people continue to bear the brunt of the jobs crisis amid widespread cuts in sectors such as hospitality, official figures show.
In the year to March, 811,000 payroll jobs were lost in the UK, with under-35s accounting for 80% of these cuts. The data also showed the unemployment rate dipped to 4.9% in the three months to February – down from 5% previously.
This was despite most of the UK being under strict lockdown rules for at least some of the period. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the jobs market “remains subdued”, with five million people employed but still on furlough.
Statement on vaccination progress and new variants
Statement by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on vaccinations, variants of concern and the appointment of a new chief scientific adviser.
10 million people receive second dose of COVID-19 vaccine
The milestone means almost one in five adults have received both vaccines
BFS OUTLINES £300M PANDEMIC RECOVERY FUND PLANS
Bibby Financial Services (BFS) has outlined plans for a £300m Pandemic Recovery Fund to support SMEs as lockdown restrictions are lifted over the coming months. Available through the firm’s invoice finance products, the initiative will be targeted at companies who are trading on credit terms with other businesses, supporting supply chains and those looking to access funding to drive growth. UK chief executive Ian Ramsden said: “We know the tremendous impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on SMEs and supply chains across the UK over the past year.”
Coronavirus Act one-year report: March 2021
One-year report on which powers in the Coronavirus Act 2020 are currently active.
New global partnership launched to fight future pandemics
The Government will launch a new Pandemic Preparedness Partnership (PPP) to save lives from future diseases and prevent another global pandemic.
9 in 10 pharmacies now offering free, rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) tests
Over 90% of community pharmacies in England now offering free, rapid tests for home use.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 20,883 to 19th April
Cases in the latest week: 78 (45 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 711 to April 2nd
Cases per 100,000: 27 per 100,000 week 9th to 15th April
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
Scroll down for the latest Coronavirus Grant news for Stockport based businesses
REGIONAL & LOCAL NEWS:
Transport for the North appoints new Chief Executive
A new leader has been appointed for the body tasked with improving transport systems across the North. Transport for the North (TfN) has appointed Martin Tugwell as its new chief executive, following an announcement that current leader Barry White is stepping down next month. Mr Tugwell is currently programme director at England’s Economic Heartland, which has won significant transport funding for the area around Oxford and Cambridge. He is also the current president of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation. He will join TfN at a time when Northern leaders are complaining that the organisation’s budget has been cut and significant transport projects in the area have been either downgraded or cancelled.
Greater Manchester employers urged to upskill managers to better support workers
CIPD, ACAS and the Greater Manchester Employment Charter have collaborated to produce a new guide to help organisations upskill line managers. The three organisations, which all share a purpose of driving fair work opportunities, have produced the guide to help managers support an increasingly diverse and remote workforce. According to the guide however, only 40% of line managers receive any people management training and ‘management style’ is a main cause of work-related stress for many.
Northern powerhouse property market pulls ahead of the south
Collectively prices increased by a huge 9.8% in the North annually to January 2021, compared to 6.6% in the Midlands and 6.4% in the South. While prices are on the up in the North, it’s still relatively affordable for investors and owner-occupiers alike. Property prices average at £167,211 across the Northern regions, which is less than half the typical price in the South (357,257).
The North West (12.0%) has seen the steepest house price inflation, bringing prices to a typical £184,234, while the Yorkshire and the Humber (8.9% £179,248) and the North East (8.5% £138,151) aren’t far behind.
Rental yields strongest up North – despite slipping annually
Rental yields averaged at 5.2% in the North of England, compared to 4.1% in the Midlands and 3.8% in the South. Although strong rental growth in the region means rental yields have declined marginally year on year, the area remains the best bet for landlords, with the UK’s best rental yields found in Yorkshire and the Humber, at 6.0%.
Managing Director of Ascend Properties, Ged McPartlin, commented:
“The North of England has long been where investors can get bang for their buck, and the study certifies why. Stronger rental yields, affordable prices for buyers and renters alike, as well as rising prices, make the region a hotbed of activity.
“The only surprise is that yields have fallen in the North, though if prices continue to rise in those regions that should dwarf a small decrease in yearly income.
“We’re pleased the so-called Northern Powerhouse appears to be becoming a reality, as more people seek to live and work in more affordable areas of England.”
Stockport travel company open doors as bookings soar
Travel agency, Barrhead Travel’s Stockport branch has reopened its doors to welcome back customers as lessening restrictions drive a boom in bookings.
The Scottish travel group’s Merseyway branch opened for the first time last year and have now begun welcoming back customers who are eager to book their first post-pandemic getaway. Over the last year, store manager Amanda Scott-Handley and her four-strong team have been working remotely to support customers impacted by Covid-19, but the Stockport travel agency is now open for both in-store and virtual appointments.
Lockdown easing gives shoppers first glimpse of Underbanks improvements
During the winter lockdown, works have carried on improvements to the public realm, including the road and footpaths, in the Underbanks area of the town centre. Phase two of the scheme has now been completed in the Lower Hillgate/Little Underbank area: new street furniture, new street lighting, new paving and a new road surface are now all in place. New street furniture and lighting between Royal Oak Yard and the roundabout at Great Underbank will also soon be installed.
SECTOR SPECIFIC CORONAVIRUS-RELATED NEWS:
BREXIT:
HMRC: Apply for the SME Brexit Support Fund
If you move goods between the UK and countries in the EU, you need to follow new customs and tax rules. Your business will be affected by the new rules if you:
- buy goods from an EU seller and bring them into the UK
- send goods you’ve sold to a buyer in an EU country haven’t exchanged money but need to move equipment that you use for your business, between the UK and the EU.
- We understand this means a lot of changes are needed, and HMRC is here to help you in several ways.
You can now apply for the SME Brexit Support Fund. Smaller businesses can get up to £2,000 to pay for practical support, including training or professional advice to adjust to new customs, rules of origin and VAT rules when trading with the EU.
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 ‘Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) – ‘Claiming the fourth grant if you’re a new parent’ has been added.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): right to work checks
Advice for employers carrying out right to work checks during the coronavirus pandemic – updated as the temporary adjustments introduced because of coronavirus end on 16 May 2021.
HMRC issue briefing: how HMRC will continue to support customers and the economy
This briefing sets out how HMRC will continue to support customers and the economy over the coming months – updated to include information announced since November and links to scheme statistics.
Treasury Direction made under Sections 71 and 76 of the Coronavirus Act 2020
Treasury Direction in relation to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Job Retention Bonus – uploaded HTML version of: ‘Further Treasury Direction made on 15 April 2021 under Section 76 of the Coronavirus Act 2020’
Download a template if you’re claiming for 100 or more employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Complete a template with the details of the employees you’re claiming for and upload this when you claim (for claims on or after 1 July 2020).
COMMUNITY:
Private providers of coronavirus testing
Lists of and information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (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
CONSTRUCTION:
Confidence returns with surge in contract awards
The construction industry will be breathing a sigh of relief as client confidence returns with a surge in construction contract awards in March. The Glenigan contractors league tables†, which provides a view of the top performing businesses in UK construction, identified that 238 projects worth £6 billion were awarded to the top 50 contractors in March 2021, which is a significant and welcome improvement over the last twelve months’ performance.
EDUCATION:
Ofsted: coronavirus (COVID-19) rolling update
Ofsted guidance and information relating to coronavirus (COVID-19) for schools, early years, children’s social care and further education and skills providers.
School govenance update
Important news and communications from the Department for Education (DfE) relating to governance in maintained schools and academy trusts in England.
Early years inspection handbook
Ofsted guidance on inspecting registered early years and childcare providers under the education inspection framework
Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework
The standards that school and childcare providers must meet for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT)
Information for providers about managing initial teacher training courses impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) – we have added a section on funded course extensions for 2020 to 2021 trainees and information on how trainees should be recommended for early years teacher status. We have updated information on the immigration permission for trainees from the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland and using the get school experience service. We have also removed the section on funded course extensions for 2019 to 2020 trainees and content relating to ITT 2020 recruitment.
Funding: ITT coronavirus (COVID-19) course extensions
Guidance about funding extensions to initial teacher training (ITT) courses during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19) ITT course extensions funding manual: academic year 2020/21 ‘ and ‘ITT course extensions trainee information template 2020/21’.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
NHS Test and Trace public advisory group: taking part
Find out about the role of the Public Advisory Group and how members of the public are selected to take part.
COVID-19: impacts on health – reports and tools
National reports and tool to support the monitoring of the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on the population.
Deaths registered weekly in England and Wales, provisional: week ending 9 April 2021
Provisional counts of the number of deaths registered in England and Wales, in the latest weeks for which data are available.
COVID-19: impact on vaccination programmes
Reports assessing the impact of COVID-19-related physical distancing measures on delivery of childhood vaccination programmes in England.
Medical devices given exceptional use authorisations during the COVID-19 pandemic
List of manufacturers and their medical devices which have been granted an exemption by the MHRA. The list also includes manufacturers whose exemption expired or was cancelled. This information will be listed for 2 months after expiry or cancellation.
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.
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Organised events guidance for local authorities
This guidance sets out advice for local authorities in England around organised events during coronavirus.
PROPERTY:
End of furlough “won’t kill off the housing market bull run”
A leading analyst has told Knight Frank that the end of furlough this autumn is unlikely to kill off the housing market bull run. Savvas Savouri, chief economist at Toscafund, says: “This is not like previous recessions when whole communities were affected by the closure of a steel mill or a coal mine. “It’s also completely different from the global financial crisis when the collapse of banks and building societies had a localised impact. Every town and city has hospitality and retail venues and so no particular region will be left behind as the country emerges from this recession.”
Agents warned about cash crisis amongst renters under 40
Flatshare website SpareRoom says over a fifth of 18 to 24 years olds have moved back in with their parents to save cash during the pandemic – and one in nine people aged 25 to 40 have done the same thing. Its research reveals more than 27 per cent of people aged 18 to 40 have been forced to borrow money as a direct result of Covid-19 and for almost two thirds of these it’s the first time as adults that they have ever had to do this. On average, they borrowed £1,479.57 with a younger subset – the so-called Millennials – borrowing an average £1,836.05.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): landlord right to rent checks
Advice for landlords carrying out right to rent checks during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic – updated as the temporary adjustments introduced because of coronavirus end on 16 May 2021.
RETAIL:
BBC: Primark shopper numbers back to pre-Covid levels
Primark has said the number of people visiting its stores in England and Wales last week after lockdown eased reached pre-pandemic levels.
The chain said the stores “delivered record sales” in the first week since reopening after more than three months.
Unlike most High Street retailers, Primark has no online operations.
As a result, the business has been hit hard by Covid restrictions and estimates it lost £1.1bn in sales while stores were closed.
However, it said more than half of its stores broke their own sales records
TRANSPORT:
Traffic management measures in Kent cease as trade returns to normal
Hauliers no longer need a Kent Access Permit to travel between the UK and the EU.
International road haulage: HGV driver documents
Check which documents you need to carry if you’re the driver or a passenger in a lorry or other heavy goods vehicle (HGV) that crosses international borders.
Haulier advice site locations
Find sites where HGV and coach drivers can get free COVID-19 tests and check their documents to transport goods to the EU.
DVLA Coronavirus (COVID-19) update
Our online services have not been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and are running as normal – updated information on applying for and renewing your lorry and bus licence with a D4 medical form
TRAVEL:
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.
Moneysupermarket reports 20 per cent revenue drop as travel interest remains “negligible”
A British price comparison website has reported that its revenues dropped by 20 per cent in the first quarter of the year. Moneysupermarket Group, which specialises in comparisons of energy, financial services and insurance providers, saw revenues in the first three months of 2021 drop to £85.5m, down by 20 per cent from 2020’s £107.3m. The company said that contributions from its travel-focused arm, TravelSupermarket, remained “negligible”, while revenue within its financial division dropped by 26 per cent.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): red list travel ban countries
Countries from which entry to the UK is banned – ‘red list’ countries.
India will be added to the red list of countries 4am, Friday 23 April.
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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