!! 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
UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,398,431 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 2,729 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 1,915 (84 fewer than previous day)
New deaths across UK: 18
Total UK deaths: 127,345
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: 33,257,651
Total 2nd doses: 10,775,817
Daily 1st doses: 117,909
Daily 2nd doses: 416,784
There have been almost 4.4 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and sadly over 127,000 people have died. Over 33 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine. More than 11 million people have had both their first and second jab. The average number of daily infections in the UK has continued to decline but is flattening. A further 2,396 confirmed cases in the UK were announced by the government yesterday, Wednesday.
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:
Covid pushes government borrowing to highest levels since WWII
The cost of measures to support the economy during the coronavirus pandemic has pushed government borrowing to the highest level since the end of World War Two. Government borrowing – the difference between spending and tax income – hit £303.1bn in the year to March, the Office for National Statistics said.
Compared to the previous year, borrowing is nearly £250bn higher. Measures such as furlough payments have hit government finances hard. Borrowing hit £28bn in March alone – a record high for that month. Despite the record figure, Paul Johnson, director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said the annual borrowing figure was “slightly better than expected a month ago”.
India joins ‘red list’ of countries as all passengers forced to quarantine for 10 days
British and Irish nationals arriving in the UK from India must quarantine in a government-approved hotel, as new Covid travel curbs come into force.
India joined the UK’s “red list” on Friday, effectively banning travel. The country has seen soaring infection rates, a rapidly rising death toll and the discovery of a new virus variant. Travel to the UK is banned for people who have been in red-list countries in the past 10 days, except UK citizens and those with residency rights. There are 40 countries on the government’s red list across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and South America. Countries can be added to the list with just a few hours’ notice. Coronavirus (COVID-19): red list travel ban countries
ONS: One Covid injection cuts infection rates in all age groups
The chances of becoming infected by Covid fell sharply after a first dose of either AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccines, a UK study from the ONS has found. The vaccines worked just as well in the over-75s and those with underlying health conditions, as other people. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and University of Oxford research also found a strong antibody response in all age groups from both jabs.
Everyone showed some response to both vaccines, they said.
The research, contained in two studies which have not yet been peer-reviewed or published, is based on virus tests from 370,000 people in the general UK population – one of the largest to date.
Government’s £7m UK Global Screen Fund to increase reach of UK cinema
The British film industry is set to step onto the world stage with multi-million-pound government funding to increase the international reach of British cinema.
Developed in partnership with the British Film Institute (BFI), the fund aims to support the UK independent screen sector to export their productions to markets around the world. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden commented:
“The United Kingdom has an independent screen industry to be proud of. World renowned, our film, TV, video game and animation industries create jobs and growth the length and breadth of the UK. The UK Global Screen Fund will export the extraordinary talent and creativity of the UK to audiences across the globe, supporting our talented filmmakers and screen businesses to compete and grow.”
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 20,923 to 22nd April
Cases in the latest week: 65 (52 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 713 to April 9th
Cases per 100,000: 22 per 100,000 week 12th to 18th April
R number in North West: 0.6 – 0.9
Number of 1st dose of vaccine: 150,631 people have received 1st dose vaccine to 18th April
Scroll down for the latest Coronavirus Grant news for Stockport based businesses
REGIONAL & LOCAL NEWS:
New Head of Climate Action required to lead Stockport CAN – Climate Action Now
Stockport Council is recruiting for a Head of Climate Action to ensure the borough does its part to address the global climate emergency. The newly created role will take ownership of Stockport Council’s Stockport CAN (Climate Action Now) strategy which sets out the action the local authority will take over the next five years in order to meet its 2038 carbon neutrality target. Stockport’s action plan on climate change consists of seven areas of action for the next five years.
Stockport has the lowest rate of infection in Greater Manchester
At 22.2 total cases per 100,000 people, Stockport’s rate of infection is now below the average in England at 22.2. Greater Manchester’s infection rate has fallen for the third week in a row as the number of people to have received a Covid vaccine has exceeded 1.3 million. There were 37.4 confirmed coronavirus cases per 100,000 people in the city-region in the week ending April 17 and in Stockport the number has fallen to 22. Covid prevalence is also beginning to thin out amongst all age groups as the vaccination rollout and unlocking of hospitality and non-essential retail continues.
Co-op unveils major company restructure set to impact thousands of jobs
Thousands of Co-op jobs could be impacted after the group announced plans for a major restructure of its store management structure. The retailer is to move to a three-tier structure with all affected employees set to be offered alternative positions. It has also vowed that there will be no compulsory redundancies and its main aim is to protect jobs and pay. Stores will go to a three-tier structure from four-tier which the group said is in line with similar structures to convenience competitors.
EY advises on £1bn of Northern deals in Q1 of 2021
Deals worth in the region of £1bn were completed by EY’s North Strategy and Transactions teams during the first three months of 2021. The teams acted on 15 completed deals in total including Radius’ acquisition of Rainbow Communications in March and Greater Manchester surveillance products company Wireless CCTV secure a £30m investment from mid-market private equity firm LDC.
Virtual Careers Fair helps school leavers in Stockport make informed choices Stockport Jobs Match, in association with Stockport Council, Bridge GM and Gander Careers, is hosting a week-long Virtual Careers Fair to help young people in the borough understand their options from 16+. The five-day online event will help young people learn more about the different career, education and training pathways available to them, whether they have already chosen A-levels, an apprenticeship or vocational course or are still undecided. Over 25 Further and Higher Education training providers are confirmed to be delivering presentations throughout the week as part of the event. From Monday 10th – Friday 14th May, Stockport Jobs Match will be delivering a range of pre-recorded, live and interactive sessions to help explain the choices available to those leaving school and provide impartial, comprehensive careers advice. All sessions are free to attend and aimed at Years 7 – 11 students, parents and caregivers, teachers and careers advisors.
SECTOR SPECIFIC CORONAVIRUS-RELATED NEWS:
AGRICULTURE:
Coming to the UK for seasonal agricultural work on English farms
Advice for seasonal agricultural workers coming to England to pick fruit and vegetables on farms, and their employers.
BUSINESS:
Check if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out if you’re eligible, and how much your employer can claim if they put you on temporary leave (‘furlough’) because of coronavirus (COVID-19) – other types of eligible employees have been added to the ‘Check if you’re eligible’ section. Updated guidance for when you’re self-isolating or on sick leave.
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 – updated guidance for other types of employees you can claim for and if your employee is clinically vulnerable.
Other types of employees you can claim for
Find out if you can claim through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for different types of employees – section on contractors engaged with the public sector, or by a medium or large-sized organisation, in scope of off-payroll working (IR35) rules has been updated.
Calculate how much you can claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Calculate how much you have to pay your furloughed employees for hours on furlough and how much you can claim back.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from quarantine, passenger locator form or COVID testing requirements.
COMMUNITY:
Coronavirus and the social impacts on Great Britain: 23 April 2021
Indicators from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey covering the period 14 April to 18 April 2021 to understand the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on people, households and communities in Great Britain.
How to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Advice for everyone to help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
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 – removed the banner linking to information about the spring 2021 roadmap and to the rules on what you can and cannot do.
How tests and testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19) work
The different types of tests and testing kits for COVID-19, and the specifications for manufacturers – added new text under ‘Self testing’ about ‘Concerns about the use of ethylene oxide in sterilising test swabs’
COVID-19: guidance for care of the deceased
Advice to assist people required to manage bodies of deceased persons infected with coronavirus (COVID-19) – updated links to Guidance for managing a funeral, updated advice to those at higher risk of severe disease.
COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing
Advice and information on how to look after your mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added link to the money navigator tool from the Money Advice Service in the Financial Concerns section.
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:
Gleed launches new dispute division for Covid-related claims
The consultant it is preparing for “dispute resolution service requirements to expand on a worldwide basis post-Covid.” Board member Chris Soffe, who has overseen the launch said: “After the tragedy of the pandemic there will be clients involved in projects and schemes worldwide who will face huge challenges in meeting the contractual obligations agreed prior to Covid. With vast experience in helping organisations successfully resolve disputes, we can bring a skillset and professionalism which will mitigate risk and deliver positive results after this stressful period.” The new International Dispute Advisory Group is made up of a collection of specialist arbitrators, mediators, adjudicators, and expert witnesses.
EDUCATION:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): test kits for schools and FE providers
Guidance for schools and further education (FE) providers on the initial supply of coronavirus (COVID-19) home testing kits for pupils, teachers and staff – updated to explain when schools and FE providers may provide PCR test kits to staff or students who are showing symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) and how they can order further PCR tests for symptomatic testing.
EVENTS:
Event Research Programme – ministerial directions
Ministerial directions in relation to the Event Research Programme pilot events – added Carabao Cup Final direction.
HEALTH, SOCIAL CARE & WELLBEING:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey, UK: 23 April 2021
Estimates for England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. This survey is being delivered in partnership with University of Oxford, University of Manchester, Public Health England, and Wellcome Trust.
Visiting arrangements in care homes
Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents – updated ‘Guidance on care home visiting’ and ‘Summary of guidance for visitors’ to reflect the availability of self-testing for visitors.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for personal assistants
How personal assistants working in adult social care in England can access twice-weekly COVID-19 testing – added link to the ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for adult social care settings’ page.
Weekly national flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports published
National influenza and COVID-19 report, monitoring coronavirus (COVID-19) activity, seasonal flu and other seasonal respiratory illnesses.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing in adult care homes
How to access test kits and step-by-step guides on how to use PCR and rapid lateral flow test kits for regular and outbreak testing of residents, staff and visiting professionals – added link to the ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for adult social care settings’ page and ‘Testing for professionals visiting care homes’ guidance.
PHE: Investigation of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (England) – Technical briefing 8, 1 April 2021
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children’s social care services
Advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) for local authorities and their partners to help support and protect vulnerable children – updated ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for children’s social care services’.
LEGAL:
How to register an EPA during the coronavirus outbreak
If you need to register an EPA now, you can do so as long as you follow government guidance on social distancing and self-isolating.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Office of the Public Guardian response
This page provides guidance on how OPG is responding to the coronavirus outbreak. It will be updated when new information is available.
Making and registering an LPA during the coronavirus outbreak
If you want to make an LPA now, you can as long as you follow government guidance on social distancing and self-isolating.
Being a deputy or attorney during the coronavirus outbreak
Find out how you can continue to act in the best interests of the client or donor, during the outbreak.
MANUFACTURING:
Jaguar Land Rover forced to halt production as coronavirus interrupts parts supply
The production line at two of JLR’s plants are to close, temporarily, due to a shortage of parts vital to keeping its car manufacturing on track. A company statement said: “Like other automotive manufacturers, we are currently experiencing some COVID-19 supply chain disruption, including the global availability of semi-conductors, which is having an impact on our production schedules and our ability to meet global demand for some of our vehicles. As a result, we have adjusted production schedules for certain vehicles which means that our Castle Bromwich and Halewood manufacturing plants will be operating a limited period of non-production from Monday 26th April. Manufacturing continues at our Solihull plant. We are working closely with affected suppliers to resolve the issues and minimise the impact on customer orders wherever possible.”
PROPERTY:
Insolvency firm warns of growing distress in property sector
An insolvency specialist is warning that the real estate sector of the UK is seeing more firms in financial distress despite the soaring housing market.
Begbies Traynor’s latest Red Flag report says: “Despite the booming residential property market, the whole real estate and property sector – a key indicator of the economy’s performance – has seen another 11,000 businesses enter significant distress in the last quarter and rise by 15 per cent (73,952 – Q4 2020, 85,165 – Q1 2021) with a leap of 51 per cent since the same period last year.”
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): transport and travel guidance
Information for people using transport or working in the transport sector during the coronavirus outbreak.
General Aviation Roadmap
The government’s vision, strategic priorities and forward programme of work to support the General Aviation (GA) sector.
TRAVEL:
Countries on the ‘red travel list’ – what are the rules?
Many travellers from India will now be stopped from entering the UK – as the country joins the government’s ‘red list’. The rule change came into force at 04:00 BST on Friday 23 April, following concern about the spread of a new variant of coronavirus. The decision was “difficult but vital”, said Health Secretary Matt Hancock. Countries can be added to the list with just a few hours’ notice.
Which countries are on the red list?
The changes mean there are 40 countries on the government’s red list of countries from which travel is banned:
- Middle East: Oman, Qatar and United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Africa: Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cape Verde, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
- Asia: Bangladesh, Pakistan, Philippines, India (from 04:00 Friday 23 April)
- South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela
Coronavirus (COVID-19): cruise ship travel
Guidance on domestic cruise travel during the coronavirus outbreak.
Booking and staying in a quarantine facility when you arrive in England
How to book a place in a quarantine facility and arrange coronavirus (COVID-19) tests if you’re travelling to England from a country on the banned travel list.
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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