DAILY STATISTICS
Latest BBC UK data:
Positive tests: 2,040,147 have tested positive (+ 35,928 new cases)
Loss of life: 67,401 across all settings (+ 326 in last 24 hours)
Hospital admissions: 2,034 new admissions
Cases in Stockport: 310 cases 08 Dec to 14 Dec (-59 on previous week)
Cases in Stockport: 106 cases per 100,000 08 Dec to 14 Dec (England area average: 185)
Deaths in Stockport: 459 coronavirus-related registered to 04 December
Total cases in Stockport: 11,383 to 18 December
R rate in England: 1.1-1.3
R rate in North West: 0.9 – 1.1
The latest published data can found here
The R number and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK.
UK NEWS & HEADLINES:
BBC: Growing number of countries impose travel ban on UK
More countries have banned arrivals from the UK because of concerns at the spread of a new variant of coronavirus. India is the latest state to suspend flights from the UK, joining Hong Kong, Canada, Switzerland and Germany.
On Sunday evening, France shut its border with the UK for 48 hours, meaning no lorries or ferries will be able to sail from the port of Dover. As queues grow in Kent, the prime minister will chair a meeting of the government’s emergency committee later today. Belgium and the Irish Republic have also suspended flights. India will halt flights from Tuesday evening until the evening of 31 December.
Austria is also set to bring in a ban, while Bulgaria has suspended flights to and from the UK from midnight. Unlike the short-term measures in many other nations, its ban lasts until 31 January. European Union member states are currently meeting in Brussels to discuss a co-ordinated response.
BBC: New variant of coronavirus blamed on huge surge of cases in south east
The rapid spread of a new variant of coronavirus has been blamed for the introduction of strict tier four mixing rules for millions of people, harsher restrictions on mixing at Christmas in England, Scotland and Wales, and other countries placing the UK on a travel ban. So how has it gone from being non-existent to the most common form of the virus in parts of England in a matter of months? The government’s advisers on new infections have “moderate” confidence that it is more able to transmit than other variants.
Government imposes new restrictions over the Christmas period
Following the exponential rise in cases of coronavirus in London and areas of the south east of England, on Saturday afternoon the Government announced new rules on the mixing of households in England over the Christmas holiday period. Families in tiers one, two and three will now only be allowed to meet indoors with up to three other households on one day, Christmas Day, with no overnight stays allowed. In Wales (two households) and Scotland (three households up to a maximum of eight people), Christmas bubbles will also only be allowed on 25 December. In both countries, people are being advised not to form a Christmas bubble, even though they are permitted. In Scotland, travel to and from other parts of the UK will not be allowed over the festive period. Northern Ireland has also cut its Christmas bubble window to a choice of one day between 23 and 27 December. It is being flexible to make allowances for people who are working on Christmas Day. The number of daily coronavirus infections in the UK reached an all-time high yesterday of 35,928. Health officials say there’s no evidence the new variant is more deadly, but just increasing transmission could cause problems for hospitals.
Guidance for the Christmas period
Guidance for the Christmas period.
Prime Minister announces Tier 4: ‘Stay At Home’ Alert Level in response to new COVID variant
The Prime Minister has announced tougher restrictions for parts of England with a new Tier 4: ‘Stay at Home’ alert level.
Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 19 December 2020
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Coronavirus cases rise across Greater Manchester with few exceptions
Cases of coronavirus are creeping back up across the Greater Manchester area with just Bury, Manchester, Rochdale, Stockport and Wigan continuing to reduce. Although both Stockport and Rochdale have only seen a 1% decrease. Trafford has seen the biggest jump in figures – with transmission rates up 45pc to 141.1 cases per 100,000 people. Cases are also up in Salford, Bolton and Tameside. The latest figures follow a huge spike in London and across areas of the south and east of England and as a new variant of the disease shows that infection rates are rising at a rate previously unseen. An influential epidemiologist warned that “this is the worst moment of the whole epidemic”. Professor John Edmunds, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), said he believes severe measures are needed to bring cases down.
BusinessDesk Green Revolution: “It’s private investment that is going to solve this”
An expert panel outlined how the North can capitalise on a “Green Industrial Revolution”. They spoke at a webinar arranged by TheBusinessDesk.com in partnership with international law firm CMS. The event was chaired by Ben Ormsby, TheBusinessDesk.com’s Yorkshire editor.
Vernon’s Christmas toy appeal raises £6,000 for together trust
The Vernon’s Christmas Toy Appeal has raised an incredible £6,000 to help children supported by Cheadle-based charity Together Trust. The local building society decided to boost its contribution to an extra £10 for every donation of £5 or more, to match the generosity shown by the local community. The online fundraiser was redesigned this year to be Covid-secure, with a website set up for donations to buy Christmas presents for local kids instead of donating actual toys.
Dates and Trigger Points of Additional Restrictions Grant, Local Restrictions Support Grants and Christmas Support Payments for wet-led pubs
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
The Council currently has two live business grant schemes – both for businesses that have a business rates liability, and they are for the following circumstances:
- For the period of being in Tier 3 from 23/10/20 to 04/11/20 – link to guidance and applications is here – https://www.stockport.gov.uk/support-for-businesses-and-employers
- For the period of new national restrictions (lockdown) from 05/11/20 – link to guidance and applications is here – https://www.stockport.gov.uk/support-for-businesses-and-employers/local-restrictions-support-grant-5th-november
Payments made to those venues that were require to close in March 2020 and have remained closed since, e.g.: Nightclubs. Payment will be made for the period 1st to 4th November. Eligible businesses will be entitled to receive a National Lockdown grant from 5th November 2020.
The Council’s Discretionary Grant Schemes for businesses are now open for applications.
There are two schemes available for eligible, qualifying businesses:
- The Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses), and;
- The Additional Restrictions Grant (for the latest period of National Restrictions from 04/11/20 and 02/12/20)
Information about the grant schemes, eligibility and the online application form are available at this link – Discretionary Grant Schemes – Stockport Council
It is anticipated that there will be a high volume of applications and contacts to be processed so it will not be possible for members of the team to respond to individual enquiries at this time.”
Latest Grant Payments as of 18/12.2020:
National Lockdown Scheme:
A single payment made to businesses who are required to close by Government between 5th November 2020 and 2nd December 2020.
14/12: 1,328 issued / cumulative value: £1,998,360
Local Restrictions Grant Scheme (closed – Tier 3 between 23/10/20 & 04/11/20):
Stockport was placed in Tier 3 restrictions for a period of 13 days prior to National Lockdown commencing on 5th November 2020. Therefore Tier3 payments made will be pro-rata for 13 days.
14/12: 124 issued / cumulative value: £93,881
Local Restrictions Support Grant (sector):
Payments made to those venues that were require to close in March 2020 and have remained closed since, e.g.: Nightclubs. Payment will be made for the period 1st to 4th November. Eligible businesses will be entitled to receive a National Lockdown grant from 5th November 2020.
13/11: 1 / cumulative value issued: £285.71
Number of Applications:
As at 14/12/20
Received: 1,742
Paid: 1,735
% of applications paid: 99.6%
Discretionary Grants:
As at 17/12/20
Received: 499
Processed: 290 (58.1%)
Grants Funding Issued: £307,206
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
It’s Christmas Time in Stockport – a Christmas song from Freda & Derek Chattington
BUSINESS & FINANCE:
Apply for the Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme
The Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS) provides financial support to larger businesses affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) – application deadline extended to 31 March 2021.
Apply for a coronavirus Bounce Back Loan
The Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) enables smaller businesses to access finance more quickly during the coronavirus outbreak – application deadline extended to 31 March 2021.
Apply for the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme
The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) provides financial support to smaller businesses affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) – application deadline extended to 31 March 2021.
Jobcentre guidance on COVID-19 Local Restriction Tiers
Jobcentres will remain open, as they have throughout the pandemic, to provide essential services to those we cannot help remotely.
Additional government resources to support your business during coronavirus disruptions
Other areas of support available from the government that can help businesses, employees, and the self-employed – Business support helpline Christmas opening times added.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from self-isolation or passenger locator form requirements – exemption for essential high-speed rail workers added.
COMMUNITY:
Full list of local restriction tiers by area
This page sets out the full list of local restriction tiers by area from 20 December – updated locations within Tiers.
Tier 3: Very High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 3 of local restrictions.
Tier 2: High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 2 of local restrictions.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested
Guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test and how to get tested – updated ‘information about testing kits’ and added updated guidance documents ‘graphic summarising testing for care home staff and residents’, ‘care home testing guidance for residents and staff: PCR and LFD (England)’ and ‘how to use PCR test kits’.
Guidance for the Christmas period
Guidance for the Christmas period
Guidance if you are visiting your local coastline this winter
When visiting your local coastline please take care and follow the rules and social distancing guidelines according to your tier status – updated tiers to include tier 4
Advice for clinically extremely vulnerable in new Tier 4 areas
This group is advised to stay at home at all times, unless for exercise or medical appointments, and not to attend work, even if they are unable to work from home.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and prisons
Guidance for families and friends of people in prison in England and Wales during the coronavirus pandemic.
COVID-19: guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection
Stay at home guidance for households with possible coronavirus (COVID-19) infection – updated ‘Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has possible or confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) infection’ to reflect change in self-isolation period for contacts from 14 to 10 days.
Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family
Meeting friends and family over the Christmas period – forming a Christmas Bubble.
EDUCATION:
Further and higher education: coronavirus (COVID-19)
What colleges and universities and other providers need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added ‘Asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges’.
Responsibility for exams
Guidance for schools and colleges on who should enter students for exams, the health arrangements for exams and the support DfE is providing – updated public health guidance and school and college responsibility guidance for exams from January 2021 onwards.
Get help with technology during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for local authorities, academy trusts and schools on devices and support available to provide remote education and access to children’s social care – updated to include information on the increased help available from January 2021.
Get laptops and tablets for children who cannot attend school due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
How schools, colleges, academy trusts and local authorities can access digital devices for children who are learning remotely – updated to include information on the increased help available from January 2021.
HEALTH, CARE & WELLBEING:
Roll out of lateral flow tests to local authorities
A list of local authorities across England issued with rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) tests by the Department of Health and Social Care – updated page to reflect latest authorities receiving tests as part of the Director of Public Health-led testing scheme.List of private providers of coronavirus testing
Information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19). Changed the email address for Chronomics in the ‘Providers: test to release’ section to test-to-release@chronomics.com.
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme – added national protocol for COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 (Pfizer/BioNTech).
Statement from Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty about new strain of Covid-19
New strain of Covid-19 reported to World Health Organisation
Vaccination in pregnancy (VIP)
Advice for health professionals on pregnant women who are inadvertently vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19), chicken pox (varicella), shingles or measles, mumps, rubella – updated VIP notification form and added COVID-19 vaccine information.
Visiting arrangements in care homes
Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents from 2 December.
Guidance for contacts of people with confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) infection who do not live with the person
Guidance for contacts of a person with a positive test result for coronavirus (COVID-19) who do not live with that person.
COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): information about the new virus variant
The new strain transmits more easily than the previous variant but there is no evidence that it is more likely to cause severe disease or mortality.
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: impacts on health – reports and tools
National reports and tool to support the monitoring of the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on the population.
SAGE meetings, October 2020
Minutes and papers from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) meetings held in October 2020.
SAGE meetings, November 2020
Minutes and papers from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) meetings held in November 2020.
SAGE meetings, December 2020
Minutes and papers from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) meetings held in December 2020.
COVID-19: pre-existing health conditions and ethnicity
Report assessing whether the inequalities in diagnosis and death from COVID-19 between ethnic groups can be explained by pre-existing health conditions.
SPI-M: Mass testing of the whole population, 25 November 2020
Paper prepared by the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling (SPI-M).
PHE: Factors contributing to risk of SARS-CoV2 transmission in various settings, 26 November 2020
Paper prepared by the Public Health England (PHE) Transmission Group.
Scientific evidence supporting the government response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Evidence considered by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) – published minutes for SAGE meetings 68, 70 and 71 and added 13 new papers under October, November and December.
COVID-19: background information
Information on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features – updated global case numbers.
JUDICIARY:
HMCTS weekly operational summary on courts and tribunals during coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This page provides a weekly summary of the HM Courts and Tribunals Service operational position during the coronavirus pandemic – update for week commencing Monday 21 December 2020 published.
Courts and tribunals additional capacity during coronavirus outbreak: Nightingale courts
This page holds a list of additional facilities opening to support the courts and tribunals estate during the coronavirus outbreak – Lancaster Town Hall added to list of courts.
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 – updated local restriction tier info
Coronavirus (COVID-19): courts and tribunals planning and preparation
This page provides advice and guidance for all court and tribunal users during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and will be updated when new advice is available.
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): emergency funding for local government in 2020 to 2021 and additional support in 2021 to 2022
Allocations of additional funding to local authorities in financial year 2020 to 2021 and additional support for local government in financial year 2021 to 2022 – added Local council tax support grant: indicative allocations and distribution methodology note 2021-22.
Laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers progress data
Information about how many laptops, tablets and 4G wireless routers we have delivered or dispatched to local authorities and academy trusts – added ‘Devices data as of December 2020’.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) lateral flow tests waste codes
Information for local authorities about the waste codes and management routes when conducting mass testing using lateral flow antigen tests.
MINISTRY of DEFENCE:
Tri-service regulations for expenses and allowances (JSP 752)
JSP 752 is the policy document for expenses and allowances for regular and reserve UK armed forces personnel.
COVID Support Force: the MOD’s continued contribution to the coronavirus response
Military personnel are supporting public services across the UK to assist with the response to COVID-19. This page has the latest information on the MOD’s activities – updated: the MOD’s continued contribution to the coronavirus response page as of 18 December 2020.
PROPERTY:
Furlough Fraud – MPs want agencies and other claimants named
MPs want the government to publish the names of estate agencies and other companies claiming furlough funding. The all-party Public Accounts Committee of MPs says so-called opportunistic fraud – where furloughed staff continue to work despite companies claiming funds – could be between seven and 34 per cent of cases.
Christmas gift for Estate Agents – market 1/3rd busier than 2019
Figures from Zoopla suggest there’s a Christmas present being unwrapped by agents across the country – a far busier housing market than this time last year.
The roller-coaster that is 2020 is ending with demand up 33 per cent compared to late 2019, with house price inflation at a three year high of 3.9 per cent.
RETAIL:
Arcadia’s Evans Group sold for £23m
The administrators of retail giant Arcadia Group have sold the Evans brand for £23m. Global company City Chic Collective, which is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, has acquired the business. It operates online primarily in Australia, New Zealand and the US. Under the terms of the deal, City Chic will acquire the Evans brand and intellectual property, customer base and inventory.
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer transport guidance for operators
Safer working principles and risk assessment for transport operators and organisations – updated Christmas travel guidance and information about suppliers of PPE.
Coronavirus: driving tests
Find out how driving tests are affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) and what changes to expect when you take your driving test – added information about the suspension of driving tests in areas in Tier 4 in England. Updated information about the suspension of driving tests in areas in alert level 4 in Wales.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): taxis and PHVs
Actions that drivers, operators and owners of taxis or private hire vehicles (PHVs) can take to protect against coronavirus – updated Christmas travel guidance.
TRAVEL:
Foreign travel insurance
Wherever you’re travelling, it’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance before you go – updated COVID-19 travel guidance
Travel advice: coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for British people travelling overseas during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, if they are legally permitted to travel internationally – update to COVID-19 travel guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19): General Aviation
Guidance on General Aviation (GA) flying during the coronavirus outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak – updated Christmas travel guidance.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel corridors
List of countries, territories and regions from where you can travel to England and may not have to self-isolate. Namibia, Uruguay and US Virgin Islands removed from the exempt list at 4am Saturday 19 December.
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.
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:
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.
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