UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,154,562 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 9,985 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 16,059 – 761 fewer than on previous day
New deaths across UK: 323
Total UK deaths: 122,070
England Cases per 100,000: 103
R number in UK: 0.6 – 0.9
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 18,691,835 – latest daily figure
Daily 1st doses: 448,962
There have been more than 4.1 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and sadly nearly 122,000 people have died. However, these figures include only people who have died within 28 days of testing positive for coronavirus. More than 18 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.
The R value and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK. The R range for the UK is 0.6 to 0.9 and the growth rate range is -6% to -3% per day as of 19 February 2021.
Following the announcement of plans to ease of lockdown, the roadmap can be found in full here.
National lockdown: Stay at Home
Coronavirus cases are rising rapidly across the country. Find out what you can and cannot do – updated to clarify the guidance on campaigning for electoral events.
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
HEADLINES & UPDATES:
Over 40s next in line to get vaccine
Vaccinating people in order of age is the fastest way to cut Covid-19 deaths in the next phase of the roll-out, say experts advising the UK government.
People in their 40s will be next in line, followed by those aged 30-39.
Priority based on jobs would be “more complex” and could slow down the programme, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation said.
All four nations of the UK will follow this approach with a target of vaccinating all adults by end of July.
More than 18 million people in the UK have received a first dose so far.
The Queen urges everyone who can to say yes to the vaccine
The Queen has spoken about getting the coronavirus vaccine, saying she has since felt “protected”. In a video call with NHS leaders, she acknowledged getting vaccinated might be “difficult” for some who are unused to it but urged everyone to “think about other people rather than themselves”. The monarch, 94, and her husband the Duke of Edinburgh, 99, received their first doses of the vaccine in January. Her verdict: “It didn’t hurt at all.”
UK Covid alert level downgraded from level 5 to level four
The UK’s coronavirus alert level has been lowered from level five to four in all four nations as the risk that the NHS could be overwhelmed “has receded”. The four UK chief medical officers and NHS England’s national medical director agreed the change following advice from the Joint Biosecurity Centre. The alert level had moved to level five on 4 January, shortly before England and Scotland began fresh lockdowns. The top medics urged people to “remain vigilant” by following lockdown rules. A change in the alert level does not automatically mean restrictions can ease.
NHS app under consideration as access passport
Plans reportedly being considered by ministers could see the NHS app used by the public to prove their Covid status, whether they have been vaccinated or recently tested. The Guardian reports that equalities watchdog and trade unions have said that any move that relies solely on vaccine certification could be unlawful.
Local councils support businesses with £7.8 billion in grants
Local councils in England have provided a collective total of £7.8 billion in Covid-19 related business support grants, latest government figures have revealed. Since August last year, the government has provided councils with £7.8 billion for businesses through a range of schemes including both discretionary programs and to aid businesses forced to close due to local and national restrictions.
Find out about grants in Stockport
Advice on phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme: DHSC statement
Response from the Department of Health and Social Care to the interim statement from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)
New campaign encourages the nation to keep going and stay at home
Everyone across the UK is being reminded of the importance of staying at home and the risks in relaxing their behaviour at this crucial point, in a new advertising campaign.
NHS Test and Trace passes 6 million contacts reached
Since its launch last May, NHS Test and Trace has reached more than 6 million contacts, including 90.2% of close contacts for whom communication details were provided.
COVID-19 alert level: update from the UK Chief Medical Officers (25 February 2021)
A joint statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) recommending that the UK COVID-19 alert level move from level 5 to level 4.
Single dose vaccine is ‘safe and effective’
Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine has been found to offer strong protection against severe COVID-19 by US regulators. The USFDA will meet tomorrow to decide whether to recommend the vaccine be authorised. The UK has ordered 30 million doses.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 19,471 to 25th February
Cases in the latest week: 538 (2 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 632 to February 12th
Cases per 100,000: 183 per 100,000, 15th to 21st Feb
R number in North West: 0.6 – 0.9
Insider: Orbit believes Stockport is ‘going places’ after year of steady activity
A year of “surprisingly steady activity” for commercial property lettings has set Stockport up for a strong year, according to Orbit Developments leasing director, Rhys Owen. Rhys also discussed the strengths of the town, which he believes is a “location going places”. Owen noted that 2020 had ended with a flurry of lettings, bringing about 100 new jobs with them. Orbit Developments has since seen continued strong demand for office space, starting 2021 on a “bright and positive note for the business community”.
Owen believes the success paints a picture that will “also cheer local retailers, who can expect a warm welcome back from employee communities when lockdown restrictions are lifted”.
Major repairs to M60 in Stockport between Junctions 1 and 2
Highways England will begin repair work on the M60 through Stockport from 10th March 2021 with most of the work being undertaken at night to minimise disruption to traffic flow; however, some overnight closures of the entire carriageway will be required to guarantee the safety of workers.The clockwise carriageway of the M60 will be subject to a full weekend closure for two weekends in March. A diversion will be in place using the A560 between Junction 1 at the Pyramid to Junction 2 at Abney Hall, Cheadle. Closures will take place:
- 9pm Friday 12 March to 5am Monday 15 March
- 9pm Friday 19 March to 5am Monday 22 March
As the progress of repairs is subject to clement weather conditions, should either of the weekend closures be cancelled, a closure from 9pm Friday 26 March to 5am Monday 29 March may also take place. Highways England expect to complete these repairs by the end of April 2021.
Greater Manchester’s night time economy is to receive vital support from a new support office launched by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
Following the publication of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown, many workers and businesses in the hospitality sector have more clarity about the future. However, with some parts of the sector to remain closed until June at the earliest, the Night Time Economy Office will provide a signposting service for employees and employers regarding any concerns they have through the pandemic.
CORONAVIRUS GRANTS FOR BUSINESSES IN STOCKPORT:
Support Scheme for Stockport’s large strategic employers
Grants of up to £150,000 per business are available, with applications required by 28th February 2021. Businesses will be considered if they are based in Stockport with over 50 employees and have a strategic impact on the local economy (businesses with less than 50 employees will be considered in exceptional circumstances where there is exceptional contribution demonstrated to the economic vibrancy locally). Please consider the application guidance and check the eligibility criteria on the following web page: www.stockport.gov.uk/support-scheme-for-large-strategic-employers
Stockport Council expands eligibility for Discretionary Grant Schemes
Stockport Council has announced it is expanding its discretionary grant schemes to support a greater range of businesses affected by the pandemic.
The new Micro-business support scheme will see businesses outside of the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors become eligible for both the Stockport Additional Restrictions Grant scheme and the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses, affecting organisations that were impacted during the lockdown from 5th November to 2nd December, and subsequent periods of lockdown. Support will be backdated to the first date of eligibility. The discretionary schemes allow councils to support businesses that have missed out on other support as they do not have a business rates liability. Stockport Council is adding a number of sectors to those already eligible for the schemes. Details here To be eligible for the Stockport Additional Restrictions Grant scheme bus also meet specific criteria – details here Businesses will need to be able to demonstrate that they have fixed property costs and demonstrate a loss in income as a result of the pandemic.
Applications for the above scheme are now open and may be accessed here
Micro-business support grant – Stockport Council
Some businesses have not been eligible to receive a grant, and this continues to be the case – find out more here
Please note: The Council has now received funding for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme for the period following the end of the lockdown on 2nd December 2020.
A system to make automated repeat payments for qualifying businesses based on their initial applications is being used and so there is no need for businesses to reapply after their first application for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme. Funds will be paid to businesses and an email will be sent to each business stating that in accepting the funding they are confirming that they meet the qualifying conditions and statements set out in the email.
If you have not yet applied for the Local Restrictions Support Grant for Open Businesses scheme, you will need to make an initial application before you can be considered to be eligible to receive any automatic payments for further qualifying periods. Further information on the schemes will be updated on the Stockport Council website.
Business grant schemes designed to provide support in and out of lockdown
There are a number of business grant schemes available that cover different periods of time and different situations, such as being under national lockdown.
Updated with info for businesses to check on eligibility etc. to the new grants: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19#support-for-businesses-affected-by-coronavirus-restrictions
Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
SECTOR SPECIFIC CORONAVIRUS-RELATED NEWS:
BUSINESS:
Coronavirus guidance for Companies House customers
How we’ve adapted the way we work to maintain our services for the public and protect the welfare of our employees. Strike off will resume from 8 March 2021.
Access coronavirus business innovation support package
Detail on how businesses can access the scheme providing continuity grants, loans for existing award holders and additional business advisory support services.
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. Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Claim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Claim for some of your employee’s wages if you have put them on furlough or flexible furlough because of coronavirus (COVID-19). Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Check if you can claim for your employees’ wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can claim to cover wages for employees on temporary leave (‘furlough’) due to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Pay Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme grants back
Find out how to pay all or some of your grant back if you’ve overclaimed, or if you do not need the grant and want to make a voluntary repayment. Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Letter to businesses on workplace testing, February 2021
Letter from the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to all businesses registered in England about free COVID-19 tests for staff who cannot work from home.
Coronavirus guidance for Companies House customers
How we’ve adapted the way we work to maintain our services for the public and protect the welfare of our employees. Strike off will resume from 8 March 2021.
Access coronavirus business innovation support package
Detail on how businesses can access the scheme providing continuity grants, loans for existing award holders and additional business advisory support services.
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. Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Claim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Claim for some of your employee’s wages if you have put them on furlough or flexible furlough because of coronavirus (COVID-19). Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Check if you can claim for your employees’ wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can claim to cover wages for employees on temporary leave (‘furlough’) due to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Pay Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme grants back
Find out how to pay all or some of your grant back if you’ve overclaimed, or if you do not need the grant and want to make a voluntary repayment. Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Letter to businesses on workplace testing, February 2021
Letter from the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to all businesses registered in England about free COVID-19 tests for staff who cannot work from home.
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:
Self-employed worker numbers 13% down on pre-Covid levels
Numbers of self-employed workers are slowly returning to the pre-Christmas level despite worries that many eastern Europeans would not return after the break.
According to the construction industry’s biggest payer of subcontractors Hudson Contract, the number of tradespeople on its books stood at 87% of pre-pandemic levels in January. The figure was 90% before the festive break when most construction sites shut for a fortnight.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Planning Inspectorate guidance – updated 25 February 2021
In response to the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), The Planning Inspectorate has published guidance on site visits, hearings, inquiries and events.
EDUCATION:
Awarding of functional skills in 2021
Details, by awarding organisation, of the different assessment options available for functional skills in 2021 – altered to correct error – OCR assessment do not provide test centres.
Consultation on alternative arrangements for the award of VTQs and other general qualifications in 2021
The approach to awarding vocational and technical grades in 2021 following the cancellation of exams.
Consultation on how GCSE, AS and A level grades should be awarded in summer 2021
The approach to awarding GCSE, AS and A level grades in 2021 following the cancellation of exams.
Vocational, technical and other general qualifications in 2021
Publications relating to the awarding of vocational, technical and other general qualifications in the academic year 2020 to 2021.
GCSE, AS and A level qualifications in 2021
Publications relating to the awarding of GCSE, AS and A level qualifications in the academic year 2020 to 2021.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
Priority groups for phase 2 of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme: advice from the JCVI
Interim statement from the Joint Committee on Vaccines and Immunisation (JCVI) on the groups that should be prioritised for vaccination in phase 2 of the programme.
COVID-19: letter to clinically extremely vulnerable children and young people
Reference-only version of letter from the government to children and young people who are clinically extremely vulnerable.
COVID-19: letter to people identified as high risk – aged 19 to 69
Reference-only version of letter to people identified as high risk by COVID-19 population risk assessment model, aged 19 to 69.
Organisation testing registration: record of users
Guidance and spreadsheet to record the details of people you’ve tested for coronavirus on that day.
Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants
How ‘surge testing’ and genomic sequencing is being used in locations in England where COVID-19 variants have been identified.
Regulatory status of equipment being used to help prevent coronavirus (COVID-19)
There are different regulations which apply to devices and equipment including hand gels and PPE (personal protective equipment)
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing service for extra care and supported living settings
Guidance on regular retesting for extra care and supported living settings that meet the eligibility criteria.
COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable
Information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19.
COVID-19: letter to people identified as high risk – aged 70 and over
Reference-only version of letter to people identified as high risk by COVID-19 population risk assessment model, aged 70 and over.
COVID-19: mental health and wellbeing surveillance report
This is a routinely updated report about population mental health and wellbeing in England during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Latest findings from antibody surveillance study published
Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI have today published their latest antibody surveillance report tracking COVID-19 infection across England.
National flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports
National influenza and COVID-19 report, monitoring COVID-19 activity, seasonal flu and other seasonal respiratory illnesses.
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.
COVID-19 variants: genomically confirmed case numbers
Genomically confirmed case numbers for SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and variants under investigation.
NHS Test and Trace (England) statistics: 11 February to 17 February 2021
Experimental statistics on NHS Test and Trace since its launch on 28 May 2020. Includes reports on NHS Test and Trace (people tested and contact tracing) and rapid (lateral flow device) testing for people without symptoms.
PHE launches new Psychological First Aid training
The online training, developed by PHE, is now available for those supporting children and young people affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing service for extra care and supported living settings
Guidance on regular retesting for extra care and supported living settings that meet the eligibility criteria.
LOCAL AUTHORITIES:
Housing First Pilot: national evaluation reports
The National Evaluation of Housing First includes a process study, a quantitative assessment of client outcomes and cost benefit analysis and will generate a number of reports over its course – added the Mobilising Housing First toolkit which provides information for those looking to implement Housing First at a regional or local level. It includes examples of good practice in the pilot areas to help other services design and deliver Housing First.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for local government
Guidance for local councils during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added links to Business and charity support; Elections; National restrictions; Public health; Schools and education; Social care; Testing; Travel; Vaccines; and Other.
Essential workers prioritised for COVID-19 testing
List of essential workers prioritised for PCR testing for coronavirus (COVID-19).
PROPERTY:
Rightmove: sector has shaken off pandemic challenges despite 30% revenue drop
Rightmove, which is an online real estate portal and property site, saw revenues fall by 29 per cent in the past year, dropping from £289.3m to £205.7m. The company said that the decrease was largely due to the discount it offered customers between April and September 2020, and that the market has mostly “shaken off” pandemic-related challenges. It also said that it has had a positive start to 2021, with its busiest ever January site traffic.
Could 2021 be the year of the indie developer?
Over the last 10 months, we have seen a raft of changes to the planning rules in England. This has been driven by the government’s need to reach its target of creating 300,000 new homes a year and stimulating the economy as part of the Covid recovery efforts. Does this mean 2021 will be the year of the indie developer? The government is planning a reimagining of the high street, transforming them into centres of independent commerce. With many larger retailers already having moved out/online, a key driver for this transformation is a plan to increase the volume of housing in and around the high street.
RETAIL:
TRANSPORT:
Slots waiver extended in boost to UK airlines
Move provides aviation sector with much-needed flexibility and protects environment as airlines will not have to operate carbon-inefficient ‘ghost flights’ to retain their slots.
TRAVEL:
BTA: Chancellor ‘needs to act now’ to support travel industry
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer has launched another plea for “tailored financial support” for the travel industry ahead of next week’s Budget.
Day 2 and day 8 testing for international arrivals: minimum standards for providers
Sets out the minimum standards that private sector providers must meet for the COVID-19 tests for people arriving in England.
Covid-19 Webinars:
Remote education webinars
How to access school-led webinars on remote education to help share good practice – new dates for webinars for teachers added.
Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)
Watch videos and register for the free webinars to learn more about the?support available to help you deal with the economic impacts of?coronavirus. The YouTube video for Self-Employment Income Support Scheme – Universal Credit and Child Benefit has been updated.
Make your workplace COVID-secure:
You can find recordings of webinars covering other types of workplace here
HMRC:
Coronavirus COVID-19 Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme:
Providing an overview of the scheme, this webinar looks at who can claim, when to start paying SSP, employees you can claim for, making a claim, keeping records, and more. Choose a date and time to view webinar
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – How to make a claim:
This guides you through making a claim, including the essential information you need, what to do before you make your claim, calculating and processing your claim.
Choose a date and time
If you’ve missed any of HMRC’s live webinars, you can catch up series of recorded webinars on HMRC’s YouTube channel – available at a time to suit you.
Brexit Webinars:
Business Growth Hub webinars – click on the links to register your interest:
The Business Growth Hub webinars are designed to help businesses navigate through the new legislation, rules and procedures brought about by Brexit
EU Exit Webinar New rules and procedures for EU Trade (Importing & Exporting)- Focusing on Goods
Date: 14th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
EU Exit Webinar Regulation & Compliance
Date: 20th January 2021, 2:00pm -4:00pm
EU Exit Webinar – Food & Drink Labelling
Date: 26th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
EU Exit Webinar – New rules and procedures for EU Trade- focusing on services
Date: 27th January 2021, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Exporting: Actions you need to take now: An overview of the actions you need to take now before you export goods from Great Britain to the EU and move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Key processes include – staged border controls, zero-rated VAT, customs declaration, using an intermediary as well as licences, certificates, and authorisations. Please register to take part if you’re planning to export.
Trader responsibilities when using an intermediary: You now need to complete import or export declarations to trade goods with the EU. These are complex and a lot of businesses choose to use an intermediary to do these for them. This webinar explains your responsibilities as a trader if you choose to use an intermediary. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import or export.
What are customs import declarations?: If you import goods, you now need to make customs import declarations on controlled goods and all goods by the end of June. This webinar will help you understand what they are in more detail. This includes what is needed for simplified declarations, supplementary declarations, how to make them, and delayed import declarations. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import.
Importing: Staged controls and how to prepare to use them: This webinar will walk you through the three stages of the new border controls introduced on 1?? ?January?? ?2021, and what actions you need to take for each stage. Please register to take part if you’re planning to import.
Twice weekly: EnterprisingYou
Finance support for the self-employed webinars For info about latest webinar date announcements please visit the website https://enterprising-you.co.uk/latest-news/
ACAS
A series of courses to help businesses with transition from lockdown
Useful information and links:
Publishing information about your claimsIn January HMRC published the list of employers who claimed under the CJRS for periods from December onwards, on GOV???.UK.
Repayment period for Bounce Back Loans extended to ten years
Businesses that took out government Bounce Back loans to help them through the Coronavirus crisis now have more time to repay. Companies will be contacted with options to extend the length of the loan from six to 10 years as part of a new ‘pay-as-you-grow’ initiative. The new proposals give businesses three new options:
1. Extending the length of the loan from six years to 10;
2. Making interest-only payments for six months, then repaying the principal on a phased basis with other interest-only periods;
3. Delaying repayments entirely for up to six months.
Check if your business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions (for closed businesses)
Check if your business is eligible for the coronavirus Closed Businesses Lockdown Payment
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Additional Restrictions Grant
Check if your nightclub, dance hall or adult entertainment business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses)
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses)
Check if you’re eligible for the Christmas Support Payment for wet-led pubs
Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to pay VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020.
Report an outbreak of Coronavirus in Stockport:https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
Coronavirus – Guidance for employees and employers in Stockport: https://www.stockport.gov.uk/guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
COVID-19 Winter Plan
The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the end of 2020 and into the start of 2021.
Government extends JRS furlough scheme at 80% for period of lockdown
The government has said the furlough scheme, due to have closed on 31st October, would now be extended until December.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Additional Restrictions Grant
The Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) supports businesses that are not covered by other grant schemes or where additional funding is needed.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Closed)) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary local restrictions.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Open)) supports businesses that have been severely impacted due to temporary local restrictions.
Check if your business is eligible for a coronavirus grant due to national restrictions (for closed businesses)
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Closed) Addendum supports businesses that have been required to close due to the national restrictions between 5 November and 2 December 2020.
Check which employees you can put on furlough to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out which employees you can put on furlough and claim for through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. Eligibility criteria has been made clearer for employees who are made redundant on or after 23 September 2020 and you have re-employed and employees that have a fixed term contract that expired after 23 September. The dates relating to TUPE eligibility have also been corrected.
New National Restrictions from 5 November
Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available.
Job Retention Bonus (JRB)
Employers are able to claim a one-off payment of £1,000 for every eligible employee furloughed and claimed for through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), kept continuously employed until at least 31??? ?January 2021 and who meets the other eligibility criteria. Claims can be made between 15??? ?February and 31??? ?March.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – closes on 31??? ?October
Please note that this scheme closes on 31??? ?October and employers will need to make any final claims on or before 30??? ?November. You will not be able to submit or add to any claims after 30??? ?November.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary COVID-19 local lockdown restrictions imposed by the government.
Job Support Scheme expanded to help businesses forced to close
The Government’s Job Support Scheme (JSS) has been expanded to support businesses across the UK required to close their premises due to coronavirus restrictions.
Home workers can claim £26 tax relief for job expenses
If you’ve asked your employees to work from home, and you’ve not reimbursed them already, your employees may be entitled to claim tax relief on additional household expenses they’ve incurred, such as heating and lighting.
New hotline launched to report COVID fraudsters
A new hotline has been launched to stop fraudsters illegally targeting COVID stimulus schemes.
Full list of local COVID alert levels by area
The areas in England listed as local COVID alert level high and local COVID alert level very high.
Local COVID Alert level: Very High (Liverpool City Region)
Guidance on additional restrictions for Liverpool City Region.
Local COVID Alert Level Posters
A series of graphical posters displaying information about the Local COVID Alert Level.
If you would like to register your interest in creating one or more Kickstart Job, please complete the Kickstart Employer Enquiry Form and a member of the Council’s Kickstart Team will contact you to explain more.
Find someone to apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant on your behalf
Find a Kickstart gateway in England, Scotland or Wales who have expressed interest in helping employers get a Kickstart Scheme grant.
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme employer resources
If you’ve been offered Kickstart Scheme funding, you can use these resources to show your support for the scheme.
Kickstart Scheme employer contacts
List of regional contacts for employers applying for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.
Apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant: 30 or more job placements
If you are an employer looking to create 30 or more jobs placements for young people, apply for funding as part of the Kickstart Scheme.
Apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant: 29 or less job placements
If you are an employer looking to create 29 or less jobs placements for young people, apply for funding as part of the Kickstart Scheme.
Coronavirus Act report: September 2020
The third two-monthly report on which powers in the Coronavirus Act 2020 are currently active.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant extension
The grant is being extended from 1 November 2020. Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can get.
Hospitality venues in England are now legally required to enforce the rule of 6 or face a fine of up to £4,000.
Designated businesses and organisations, including hospitality, close contact services and leisure venues, will also be legally required to log details of customers, visitors and staff for NHS Test and Trace and required to display official NHS QR code posters under law
NHS Test and Trace service in the workplace
Guidance on the NHS Test and Trace service for employers, businesses and workers updated to reflect the new legal requirements for designated venues to collect contact details and display official NHS QR code posters from 24th September
If you would like to register your interest in creating one or more Kickstart Job, please complete the Kickstart Employer Enquiry Form and a member of the Council’s Kickstart Team will contact you to explain more.
Visit the Stockport Council website to report details of any outbreaks online. https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
The SMBC website and produce a form for completion online if anyone wants to report an outbreak. The links are now live and are below:
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/coronavirus-in-stockport/report-a-coronavirus-outbreak
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme employer resources
If you’ve been offered Kickstart Scheme funding, you can use these resources to show your support for the scheme.
Kickstart Scheme employer contacts
List of regional contacts for employers applying for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.
New opening times for Stockport Council Coronavirus Helpline
The helpline for vulnerable people across Stockport can now be accessed through new opening times by calling 0161 217 6046:
• Monday – Thursday from 9am to 5pm
• Friday from 9am to 4.30pm
• Saturdays from 10am to 1pm
At busy times, residents are automatically offered a call-back from one of our call handlers.
Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can’t do
Frequently asked questions on what you can and can’t do during the coronavirus outbreak – guidance updated in line with new regulations coming into force on 4 July
Business Survey:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dcms-coronavirus-impact-business-survey/dcms-business-survey-headline-measures
New tools and resources available from Acas:
Redundancy letter templates
Redundancy process map Acas have also contributed to the development of a new return to work toolkit in partnership with SOM, CIPD, BITC and Mind.
Applications Now Open for the Local Authority Discretion Fund. Businesses that had been eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support are also now eligible for the LA Discretionary Business Grant.
Apply for the coronavirus Future Fund
The Future Fund will provide UK Government loans to UK-based companies ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, subject to at least equal match funding from private investors.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme set to launch
Employers will be able to make claims through the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme from 26 May.
Business Support in Stockport – a centre pool of information to support business owners in Stockport:
www.skbusinessrecovery.co.uk
Government – Guidance on Returning to Work safely
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Government – Setting out of Road Map to recovery – 11th May 2020
Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s 60 page COVID-19 recovery strategy
The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy. The strategy sets out a cautious roadmap to easing existing measures in a safe and measured way, subject to successfully controlling the virus and being able to monitor and react to its spread.Stockport Council has launched a FREE job matching website to help support employers with vacancies and individuals across the Stockport borough who are looking for work. The service, Stockport Jobs Match, will help to connect employers who have urgent temporary or permanent vacancies with applicants who are immediately available and in need of employment. The website also helps signpost individuals to available support services and information.
www.stockport-jobsmatch.co.uk
Coronavirus Act 2020: status
A table setting out the status of each measure in the Coronavirus Act 2020.
Government – Financial Support
New 100% government backed loan scheme for small business
Stockport Council – Health & Mental Well-being https://www.stockport.gov.uk/showcase/coronavirus
Government – Financial Support
CBILS – A guide to whether it may be the best options for a business
Government – Financial Support
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – online claims portal open
Government – Business Support:
Government launches new coronavirus business support finder tool
Government – Business Support Hub:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Government – IT safety support:
Government Warnings Over Coronavirus Scams – Here’s How to Protect Yourself
Government – Financial Support:
HMRC has published guidance on how it will work out income and profits for the self-employed or those in a partnership who have lost profits due to coronavirus.
Government – Business Support:
https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19
Government – Financial Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-business-support-grant-funding
Government – Business Support:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses
Bank of England – Financial Support: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2020/march/the-covid-corporate-financing-facility
Stockport Council Grant scheme:
https://www.stockport.gov.uk/business-rates-support-measures
Gov.uk: Maintaining Educational Provision: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision
UK Lockdown – Further businesses to close and exceptions: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874732/230320_-_Revised_guidance_note_-_finalVF
Business Growth Hub:
www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus https://www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus/resources/2020/03/coronavirus-business-support-webinar-series
Food & Drink – advice and guidance:
https://marketingstockport.co.uk/news/food-delivery-and-takeaway-guidance-for-food-businesses-looking-to-diversify/
Health – updates from NHS
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news/
Health– Shielding the most vulnerable
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19
Health – Dedicated helpline to support vulnerable residents in Stockport:
Support can be accessed by calling 0161 217 6046 Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.
Health – Dedicated health & wellbeing services:
24/7 mental health helpline & safe haven for anyone over the age of 18 in Stockport (0800 138 7276).
Health – An Emotional Wellbeing Hub which provides information, advice, and guidance for anyone up to the age of 25 for emotional wellbeing and mental health concerns. 0161 217 6028 – 8.30am-5pm Mon – Thurs 8.30am-4.30pm on Friday.
Health – the big white wall
The Big White Wall offers 24/7 anonymous support via a digital emotional wellbeing and mental health service, offering peer support for anyone over the age of 16, support from trained clinicians alongside a range of helpful tools and resources.
Media and Marketing:
Prolific North are publishing daily updates on their blog as to how Covid-19 is impacting on the marketing, media and technology industries
Travel:
https://media.northernrailway.co.uk/news/coronavirus-travel-information
Recruitment: – DWP and Universal Credit http://news.dwp.gov.uk/dwplz/lz.aspx?p1=MQsDU1NjQ5MlM2OTA0OjNCNDJBOEZCRTJDOUJEOTc1ODQ0RTRCRDNDNzk4QUNF-&CC=&p=0
Retail: An update form British Retail Consortium
https://brc.org.uk/news/corporate-affairs/coronavirus-latest-retailer-activity/
Employment: – Stockport Jobs Match
Community – Guidance for businesses seeking to help voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
How businesses can offer services, funds and volunteers to civil society during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Find out more information here.
Employment – Useful information for the Self-Employed:
News and Guidance for the self-employed:
Concerned how Coronavirus might impact you and your business?
Please get in touch with Enterprising You and you will be connected to someone who can help. You can also access information and guidance including the latest Government updates via www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus
Can you claim back Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay in the Rebate Scheme
From Tuesday 26 May 2020, small and medium-sized employers, with fewer than 250 employees, will be able to apply to recover the costs of paying coronavirus-related Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) payments they have made to their employees.
Stockport park unveils tribute to young community hero 
Research finds Covid-19 has not fundamentally changed the UK labour market 
Government sets out ‘Living with COVID’ next steps from 1st April