UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
UK STATISTICS
Total UK Cases: 4,218,520 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 5,177 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 10,898 (601 fewer than previous day)
New deaths across UK: 82
Total UK deaths: 124,501
England Cases per 100,000: 55 per 100,000
R number in UK: 0.6 to 0.9
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 22,213,112 – latest daily figure
Daily 1st doses: 416,834
There have been over 4.2 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and sadly 124,501 people have died. However, these figures include only people who have died within 28 days of testing positive for coronavirus. More than 22 million people have had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.
Cases declining – the number of daily infections in the UK continues to decline, with strict lockdown measures still in place across the country.
A further 5,177 confirmed cases across the UK were announced by the government on Sunday. This is down from 6,035 cases last Sunday.
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
Following the announcement of plans to ease of lockdown, the roadmap can be found in full here.
National lockdown: Stay at Home
Find out what you can and cannot do
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
HEADLINES & UPDATES:
First steps on roadmap out of lockdown
Today, Monday 8 March marks the first step on the Government’s roadmap for coming out of lockdown. From then you will be able to meet one other person socially in the outdoors and children will be going back to school for face-to-face teaching. Even though this is the first stage in the easing of lockdown it is really important that you continue to stay at home where possible and limit your social contacts as much as possible to help reduce the risk of spread. Please continue to socially distance (2 metres), wear face coverings if in enclosed spaces (unless exempt), regularly wash/sanitise your hands and ventilate indoor areas.
Mandatory form for international travel launched to prevent illegal trips
From today, 8 March 2021, passengers travelling abroad will need to carry a new form stating that their trip is permitted under national lockdown rules.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from quarantine, passenger locator form or COVID testing requirements – exemptions for completing the declaration form for overseas travel added.
Back to school for children in England
Millions of children in England are going back to school after more than two months studying at home. Many secondary schools will have a phased return during the week, but most primary schools are expected to open for all pupils from Monday. Prime Minister Boris Johnson described the return as a first step towards a “sense of normality”. In Northern Ireland, younger primary pupils return today, but secondary pupils will start going back later this month. In Scotland and Wales, younger primary pupils are already back, with older pupils returning to primary and secondary schools from 15 March.
Schools and colleges to reopen from tomorrow as part of Step One of the roadmap
Step One of the roadmap begins tomorrow with pupils returning to face-to-face education.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Latest Stockport data:
Total Stockport cases: 19,829 to 7th March
Cases in the latest week: 266 (252 fewer cases than previous week)
Total deaths: 650 to February 19th
Cases per 100,000: 91 per 100,000, 25th to 3rd Mar
R number in North West: 0.7 – 0.9
Number of 1st dose of vaccine: 100,944 to 28th Feb
REGIONAL & LOCAL NEWS:
GM LEP: Greater Manchester in uniquely placed to ‘build back better’
Greater Manchester is in a ‘unique’ position to recover from Covid-19 and, thanks to its makeup, is the UK’s best placed city region to build back better from the crisis, a leading business figure has said. Lou Cordwell OBE, chair of the GM Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), is confident the region will get back to its thriving pre-pandemic state and more, adding that its businesses had responded with “tenacity and resilience”. Read more
LSH Auto rolls out rapid workplace Coronavirus testing
LSH Auto, part of LSH International, one of the largest dealer groups for Mercedes-Benz cars worldwide, has begun offering rapid Covid tests to colleagues across its eight UK dealerships in the Midlands and the North West. “The testing programme, led by Ian Williams, Head of Human Resources, will now be rolled out to colleagues at LSH Auto’s Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Tamworth, Stockport, Macclesfield and Whitehead with plans in place to offer regular workplace tests at all eight dealerships from next week. Martyn Webb, Managing Director of LSH Auto, said:
“Workplace testing can play an important role in our fight against this virus. It gives us the means to identify asymptomatic colleagues before they pass it on unknowingly. By offering regular tests in the workplace, we can help to protect our colleagues, their families and the wider community.”
To date, five members of staff from the HR, Health & Safety and IT departments at LSH Auto have undergone NHS training to administer the lateral flow tests and plans are in place to train more colleagues to manage the ongoing testing programme.
Stockport’s Director of Public Health asks for vigilance as lockdown eases
One year on from the first confirmed coronavirus case in Stockport, Director for Public Health Jennifer Connolly warns of the need for continued caution to keep infection rates low as schools reopen fully.
From today (8th March):
schools across England have reopened for face-to-face teaching to all pupils, and people can begin meeting one other person from a different household outdoors;
you will be able to meet one other person socially in the outdoors. Further information on the roadmap can be found here. As restrictions are eased over the coming months, we need to balance the risk, as any increase in mixing will inevitably increase the risk of the infection spreading and mutating, especially as the Kent variant, which is 50-70% more infectious than previously, is now estimated to account for around 98% of cases in Stockport. The more we stick to rules now the more likely we are to be able to meet the threshold required to meet the government’s data targets for the roadmap out of lockdown. So, please do continue to stay at home as much as possible and work from home if able. Stockport company promotes charities for free
Stockport company promotes charities for free
Transport company Belle Vue is giving hard-pressed charities and community groups in Greater Manchester a welcome boost by providing them with £25,000 of free advertising on its buses. The Christie charity, Pure Innovations, NK Theatre Arts and Stockport Volleyball Club are all being promoted on Belle Vue’s school buses. The adverts are running for at least a year.
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. The clockwise carriageway of the M60 will be subject to a full weekend closure for two weekends in March.
CORONAVIRUS GRANTS FOR BUSINESSES IN STOCKPORT:
Support Scheme for Stockport’s large strategic employers
The scheme is now closed for applications
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:
BREXIT:
Understanding the statistical implications of coronavirus (Covid-19) and EU Exit on the compilation of UK Trade statistics
How the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the end of the EU Exit transition period impacted on the compilation of UK trade.
BUSINESS:
Free rapid tests for all businesses for regular workplace testing
All businesses in England are now able to sign up to the government’s free COVID-19 workplace testing programme.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – February claims to be made by 15th March
You have until 15?? ?March to claim under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) for pay periods in February ?2021. Make sure you have the latest information by joining the live Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme webinar: Register here
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to calculate what you can claim
- how to make a claim.
HMRC are also running webinars on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme. Register here Get the latest information on:
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to make a claim
- what you may be entitled to, and more.
During these interactive webinars you can ask questions using the on-screen text box and download handouts giving detailed examples and links to more information. Afterwards HMRC will also send you a link to a video recording of the webinars, in case you’d like to see any of it again. HMRC will continue to update our webinars to reflect the latest information as it becomes available
COMMUNITY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for homecare workers
Sets out how homecare agencies in England can order regular tests for their homecare (domiciliary care) staff – updated ‘A testing service for homecare workers in England’, to add that directly employed or self-employed personal assistants who provide care that requires them to come within 2 metres of the person they support and who support adults over the age of 18 are eligible for regular testing. Replaced ‘A testing service for homecare workers in England (PDF version)’ with latest version of document.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice on accessing green spaces safely
Advice on using green spaces and protecting yourself and others from coronavirus.
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during COVID-19
Information for parents and carers about attending schools, nurseries and colleges in the spring term 2021 – added information on asymptomatic testing for parents and adults in households with children at school or college.
Understanding lateral flow antigen testing for people without symptoms
An explanation of the technology behind asymptomatic testing and the role these tests play in the national COVID-19 testing programme – updated to add video ‘Introduction to Rapid Lateral Flow testing’.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): disposing of waste
How to dispose of your personal or business waste, including face coverings, personal protective equipment (PPE) and from lateral flow tests, during the coronavirus pandemic – added guidance on how to dispose of lateral flow tests.
Enabling safe and effective volunteering during coronavirus (COVID-19)
This guidance aims to help organisations and groups understand how to safely and effectively involve volunteers during the pandemic.
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:
All construction companies can get free testing
Construction companies of all sizes can now register to order free lateral flow Covid tests for their employees from the government. The tests detect positive cases in under 30 minutes and firms can find out more online here where businesses will be provided with all the information they need to plan and deliver their testing programme, along with promotional materials. Companies have until the 31 March to register for the government’s workplace testing scheme which will remain free until the end of June.
EDUCATION:
Reported coronavirus (COVID-19) notifications by registered early years and childcare settings
This data is published fortnightly. It gives the number of registered early years and childcare providers reporting one or more confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) by week.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) local restrictions in education and childcare settings
How settings can prepare for restrictions to help contain community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Awarding of functional skills in 2021
Details, by awarding organisation, of the different assessment options available for functional skills in 2021.
How to complete the educational setting status form
This data will help the government monitor the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on settings, focus support more effectively and keep children safe.
Households and bubbles of pupils, students and staff of schools and colleges: get rapid lateral flow tests
Find out who is eligible for twice-weekly testing and how to get tested if you do not have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19). This guidance is for people without symptoms – updated to reflect that guidance also applies to colleges.
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 – updated the ‘Early years and childcare’ section to inform providers that notifications of confirmed cases of COVID-19 will not prompt a regulatory visit.
HEALTH & WELLBEING:
COVID-19 regulatory position statements
Environment Agency regulatory response to coronavirus (COVID-19) – added regulatory position statement ‘Managing lateral flow device (LFD) testing waste: RPS C25’.
Confirmed cases of COVID-19 variants identified in UK
Latest updates on SARS-CoV-2 variants detected in UK.
Coronavirus and vaccine hesitancy by sub-group, Great Britain: 13 January to 7 February 2021
Analysis of differences in hesitancy to the Coronavirus vaccine between sub-groups of the population in Great Britain, based on the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey covering the period 13 January to 7 February 2021.
NHS Test and Trace: what to do if you are contacted
An overview of NHS Test and Trace, including what happens if you test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive – updated to reflect the COVID-19 response – spring 2021 roadmap changes starting on 8 March.
Arrangements for visiting out of the care home
Sets out how care homes can support residents of working age on visits outside of the care home – updated to reflect information published in the ‘COVID-19 Response – Spring 2021’ roadmap on 22 February.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) lateral flow testing in adult social care settings
Sets out how adult social care services can carry out rapid lateral flow tests on site.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance
Find guidance about coronavirus (COVID-19) for health and social care settings, other non-clinical settings, and for the general public – added ‘COVID-19: ventilation of indoor spaces to stop the spread of coronavirus’ and amended household isolation to 10 days.
HOSPITALITY & LEISURE:
COVID-19: Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms
Guidance for owners and operators of playgrounds and outdoor gyms to enable their use while minimising the transmission risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) – updated to reflect publication of the roadmap.
COVID-19: Guidance for managing beaches, the countryside and coastal areas
Guidance for the owners and operators of beach, countryside and coastal destinations during COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Supporting the reopening of outdoor hospitality
Letter from Secretary of State Robert Jenrick to local authorities on government measures to support hospitality businesses to reopen safely.
JUDICIARY:
HMCTS weekly operational summary on courts and tribunals during coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This page provides a weekly summary of the HM Courts and Tribunals Service operational position during the coronavirus pandemic. Operational update for week commencing Monday 8 March 2021 published.
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Exceptional financial support for local authorities: capitalisation directions
Details of capitalisation directions granted to local authorities that have requested exceptional financial support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PROPERTY:
Buy-to-Let purchase surge likely thanks to extension to Stamp Duty holiday
A property lawyer is forecasting a surge in buy to let purchasing in the coming months as the stamp duty extension and the promise of low interest rates form an irresistible combination for investors. That’s the view of property law firm Wilsons which believes Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Budget will spur new investors.
In the fourth quarter of 2020, 61,800 buy to let properties were purchased, the highest quarterly figure since 2017. Wilsons says the SDLT holiday was a significant contributor to this upturn in property transactions. Buy to-let investors have purchased 102,267 properties since the SDLT holiday came into effect in July 2020.
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer aviation guidance for operators
Safer travel and working principles for airports and aviation operators – link to declaration form for international travel from England added.
TRAVEL:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): declaration form for international travel
Complete a travel declaration form to confirm that you are legally allowed to travel abroad from England.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreaks – link to declaration form for international travel from England added.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer air travel for passengers
How to travel safely in airports and on aircraft during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – link to declaration form for international travel from England added.
Foreign travel insurance
Wherever you’re travelling, it’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance before you go – new link to the declaration form for international travel (for England), from 8 March.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): requirements to provide public health information to passengers travelling to England
Information that transport operators must ensure is provided to passengers and how to provide it. New requirements to provide public health information to passengers departing from 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.
16th April: Coronavirus News Updates