DAILY STATISTICS
Latest BBC UK data:
Positive tests: 1,643,086 have tested positive (+ 13,430 new cases)
Loss of life: 59,051 across all settings (+ 603 in last 24 hours)
Hospital admissions: 1,369 new admissions
Cases in Stockport: 429 cases 20 Nov to 26 Nov (-215 on previous week)
Cases in Stockport: 146 cases per 100,000 21 Nov – 27 Nov (England area average: 130)
Deaths in Stockport: 441 coronavirus-related registered to 20 November
Total cases in Stockport: 10,498 to 30 November
R rate in England: 0.9-1.0
The R number and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK. The R number range for the UK is 0.9 -1.0 and the growth rate range is 0% to -2% to 0% per day as of 27 November 2020.
Slides and datasets to accompany coronavirus data briefing: 2 December 2020
Slides on coronavirus presented by Dr June Raine, Prof Sir Munir Pirmohamed and Prof Wei Shen Lim.
Latest infection rates courtesy of the Manchester Evening News
HEADLINES:
Coronavirus vaccine approved by MHRA for use from next week
The UK has become the first country in the world to approve the Pfizer/BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for widespread use. British regulator, the MHRA, says the jab, which offers up to 95% protection against Covid-19 illness, is safe for roll out.
Vaccinations could start within days for people in high priority groups.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast this morning, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said:
“It is the fastest ever vaccine to go from concept to reality, taking only 10 months to follow the same developmental steps that normally span a decade.
“The first 800,000 doses of the vaccine will be ready to administer next week. The UK has already ordered 40 million doses – with delivery dependent upon the speed of manufacture – and enough to vaccinate 20m people, with two shots each, 21 days apart. Around 10m doses should be available soon.”
Priority groups for coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination: advice from the JCVI, 2 December 2020
The first vaccine rollout is expected to prioritise by age and vulnerability including NHS staff, older people and carers. Several million vaccines are expected to be given throughout Dec. People will be contacted by NHS. Logistically, there are three main modes of administration covering the UK, taking into account that the vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70: by hospitals and at specially created vaccine centres including the use of some of the Nightingale units; in the community and by GPs & pharmacies where safe storage allows. The Government has also ordered 7 million vaccine doses from Moderna due in April another 100 million doses of the Oxford / Astra Zeneca vaccine that doesn’t require -70 storage; this is currently with MHRA, the UK regulator for assessment. Matt Hancock added that the vaccine is clinically safe, protects from disease and can only be regulated when certain that this is the case. When asked when we can expect to return to some aspect of normality he said he was confident that from spring it will be better “so long as we obey and respect restrictions now knowing and confident that help is on its way.” He reminded people of the importance at sticking at it through a difficult time: “Although vaccination can start, people still need to remain vigilant and follow coronavirus rules to stop the spread. “That means sticking with the social distancing and face masks, and testing people who may have the virus and asking them to isolate.”
UK authorises Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Government authorises first COVID-19 vaccine on independent advice of medicines regulator
BBC: Lockdown ends as new Tier system introduces tighter restrictions for 55million Lockdown may be over but, for the majority of the population – 99% – in England it has been replaced with revised, tougher Tier 2 and Tier 3 restrictions meaning people can’t mix indoors with other households. Non-essential shops and other businesses such as beauty parlours, hairdressers and gyms are able to reopen in all areas and spectators will be able to return to sporting venues in tiers one and two only. The health secretary has announced that relatives of all care home residents in England will be able to visit over the Christmas period if they test negative for Covid-19. He promised more than a million tests would be sent to homes over the next month. In a Commons vote on Tuesday, 55 Conservative MPs refused to support the new system – the biggest rebellion Boris Johnson has faced. Some are unhappy with the tier they’ve been placed in, while others have broader objections to what they see as the limiting of peoples’ freedom without sufficient justification. The PM said he appreciated the “feeling of injustice” and would “look in granular detail” at the “human geography” when the tiers are reviewed in two weeks.
UK medicines regulator gives approval for first UK COVID-19 vaccine
The first COVID-19 vaccine for the UK, developed by Pfizer/BioNTech, has today been given approval for use following a thorough review carried out by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Full list of local restriction tiers by area
Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on coronavirus regulations: 1 December 2020
Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement to the House of Commons
Coronavirus Act report: November 2020
The fourth two-monthly report on which powers in the Coronavirus Act 2020 are currently active.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Stockport comes out of lockdown and into Tier 3 restrictions
In Tier 3 areas, mixing of households indoors, in hospitality venues and in private gardens is banned; the rule of 6 applies in public outdoor spaces so long as social distancing is observed. Pubs and restaurants must close except for takeaway and delivery; indoor entertainment venues must stay closed. Guidance has been issued against travelling in and out of the area and personal care shops such as hairdressers may re-open. The Tier level will be reviewed by December 16th
Local restriction tiers: what you need to know – alternative formats
Alternative format versions of the guidance on the local restriction tier system, including what you can and cannot do in each tier.
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.”
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
BUSINESS & FINANCE:
Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to pay VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020. You can pay now or get ready to opt in to the VAT deferral new payment scheme – opt in to the new payment scheme by the end of March 2021
Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to make your workplace COVID-secure. The visitor economy – updated guidance covering new local restriction tiers information.
OPSS coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for business and local authorities
Guidance on how OPSS is supporting businesses and local authorities and protecting consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic – added guidance for manufacturers and makers of face visors on complying with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
How your circumstances affect eligibility for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme
If you’re self-employed or a member of a partnership find examples of how your circumstances can affect your eligibility for the scheme – update to provide clarity on verifying your eligibility with HMRC after having a new child.
How your trading conditions affect your eligibility for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme
Find out what we mean by reduced activity, capacity or demand or temporary closure and read examples of how this could affect your eligibility.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): testing guidance for employers
Guidance for employers and third-party healthcare providers on the regulations and legal obligations of running testing programmes – updated ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing: guidance for employers and third-party healthcare providers’ and ‘Annex A: employer’s legal obligations’ documents in line with updates to government guidance.
NHS Test and Trace in the workplace
Guidance on what to do if you or someone you employ is contacted by NHS Test and Trace, including self-isolation and financial support – updated to reflect the end of the national restrictions on 2 December 2020 and the reintroduction of the tiered system.
Payment deferral or deregister from money laundering supervision due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
You were able to get a payment deferral or deregister if you were a business with an annual fee due between 1 May and 30 September 2020.
Check if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Find out if you’re eligible, and how much your employer can claim if they put you on temporary leave (‘furlough’) because of coronavirus (COVID-19) – guidance updated because the 30 November claim deadline has now passed.
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) – guidance updated to reflect that 30 November claims deadline has now passed. Section on holiday pay updated with further clarity on when employees can be furloughed.
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 – guidance has been updated because the 30 November claim deadline has now passed.
COMMUNITY:
Making a support bubble with another household
How you can safely expand the group of people you have close contact with during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic – amended the eligibility criteria for a support bubble and added guidance on how to switch your support bubble.
Making a childcare bubble with another household
How you can get informal childcare for children under 14 from friends and family you do not live with – added guidance on how to switch your childcare bubble.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice on accessing green spaces safely
Advice on using green spaces and protecting yourself and others from coronavirus – updated with guidance from 2 December 2020.
COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship and special religious services and gatherings during the pandemic
Guidance to provide advice on how places of worship can open, for limited permitted activities, in a manner that is safe and in line with national restrictions.
COVID-19 Winter Plan
The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the winter –
easy read version added
Tier 1: Medium alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 1 of local restrictions from 2 December.
Tier 2: High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 2 of local restrictions from 2 December.
Tier 3: Very High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 3 of local restrictions from 2 December.
Guidance for the Christmas Period
Guidance for the Christmas Period.
Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family
Meeting friends and family over the Christmas period – forming a Christmas Bubble.
Coronavirus: driving tests
Updated to confirm driving tests will restart in tier 1 and 2 areas in England on Wednesday 2 December, and in tier 3 areas on Thursday 3 December.
Coronavirus: driving theory tests
Updated to confirm theory tests will restart in all areas of England on Wednesday 2 December 2020.
CONSTRUCTION:
Covid impacted mainly on the construction division where revenue is expected to be down £400m to £1.26bn this year. The development division also suffered delivery delays mainly on its student projects, but consulting rode out the storm and is predicting revenue ahead of budget at £363m. Announcing 2019 results today, Mace chief executive Mark Reynolds said that the firm had been put on a strong footing to cope with the pandemic after enjoying a 30% rise in pre-tax profit to £25m from revenue down to £1.8bn from a highwater mark of £2.3bn in 2018. Group operating margin during the year was restored to 1.9% from 0.75% in 2018. Raynolds added that despite the fall in revenue in 2020 prompt action to cut costs meant Mace would remain in profit.
DEFRA:
Forestry Commission operational update: coronavirus
This update provides details on the Forestry Commission’s working practices during the coronavirus outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for people in England with animals
Advice for pet owners and livestock keepers on looking after the welfare of animals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This advice applies to England only – updated with guidance from 2 December 2020.
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 – updated guidance to reflect the tier system in England from 2 December.
EDUCATION:
School governance update
Important news and communications from the Department for Education (DfE) relating to governance in maintained schools and academy trusts in England – added ‘School governance update: December 2020’.
Education plans from September 2020
Guidance for education providers about Ofsted’s phased return to inspection.
Responsibility for autumn exams
Guidance for schools and colleges on who should enter students for autumn exams, the health arrangements for exams and the support DfE is providing – added information about the support available for functional skills qualifications (FSQs).
Remote education webinars
How to access school-led webinars on remote education to help share good practice – updated ‘New webinars for middle leaders’ with additional webinar date.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing burdens on educational and care settings
List of data collections, services or requests which will be cancelled, paused or will continue.
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Attendance in education settings since Monday 23 March and early years settings since Thursday 16 April – added ‘Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 26 November 2020’.
Amanda Spielman launches Ofsted’s Annual Report 2019/20
The Chief Inspector spoke at the launch of Ofsted’s 2019 to 2020 Annual Report on education, children’s services and skill
Social care plans from September 2020
Guidance for children’s social care providers about Ofsted’s phased return to inspection
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).
HEALTH, CARE & WELLBEING:
Care home residents to be reunited with families by Christmas
New guidance will safely allow indoor visits to care homes across England as the country moves back into tiered restrictions.
Visiting arrangements in care homes
Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents from 2 December – updated in line with restrictions that will apply from 2 December and added a summary of the guidance.
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.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): reducing risk in adult social care
A framework for how adult social care employers should assess and reduce risk to their workforce during the coronavirus pandemic.
MHRA guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)
We are producing guidance and information for industry, healthcare professionals and patients covering the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added link to news story on approval of first UK COVID-19 vaccine, in the ‘Vaccines and vaccine safety’ section
Priority groups for coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination: advice from the JCVI, 2 December 2020
Advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) on the groups that should be prioritised for vaccination.
Supported living services during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for providers of supported living settings – added easy read version of the guidance.
Containing and managing local coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreaks
Guidance for local authorities and local decision-makers on containing and managing COVID-19 outbreaks at a local level – Removed annex 3, please instead refer to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-contingency-framework-for-education-and-childcare-settings
HOSPITALITY & LEISURE:
Prime Minister announces £1,000 Christmas grant for ‘wet-led pubs’
Support for pubs that predominantly serve alcohol rather than food through festive period.
HMRC coronavirus (COVID-19) statistics
HMRC data about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, and the VAT payments deferral scheme – updated the Eat Out to Help Out section to state that a geographic breakdown of the Eat Out to Help Out statistics for businesses with 25 or fewer outlets will be published in due course.
JUDICIARY:
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 tier restrictions replace national lockdown.
PROPERTY:
Housing market defies gravity as prices hit 5-year high
Annual house price inflation is now running at 6.5 per cent according to the latest Nationwide index after a 0.9 per cent rise in November alone. With high demand and the stamp duty holiday still showing strong momentum, the Nationwide figures come on top of property transactions rising to 105,600 in October, the highest level since 2016, and mortgage approvals for house purchases hitting 97,500 – the highest since 2007. Nationwide’s chief economist Robert Gardner says: “The outlook remains highly uncertain and will depend heavily on how the pandemic and the measures to contain it evolve as well as the efficacy of policy measures implemented to limit the damage to the wider economy. Behavioural shifts as a result of Covid-19 may provide support for housing market activity, while the stamp duty holiday will continue to provide a near term boost by bringing purchases forward.”
RETAIL:
12,000 jobs to be lost as Debenhams goes into liquidation
More than 10,000 jobs are set to be lost as a British department store chain goes into liquidation. Debenhams is set to go into liquidation after the fall of its biggest concession operator Arcadia group yesterday (30 November). Rescue deal talks with Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group have now ended, with the sports retailer pulling out after Arcadia went into administration. The liquidation of Debenhams will see the potential loss of 12,000 jobs after the company placed in administration for the second time in April. The collapse has been largely caused by the pandemic, but Debenhams had entered administration for the first time before the onset of Covid-19. The administrators will continue to trade Debenhams’ stores and online business to clear its current and contracted stocks.
SPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): grassroots sports guidance for the public and sport providers
This guidance sets out information for the public and sport providers on how to participate in grassroots sport and physical activity during COVID restrictions.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): grassroots sports guidance for safe provision including team sport, contact combat sport and organised sport events
This guidance sets out information on grassroots sport and physical activity during COVID restrictions including the team sport framework, contact combat sport framework, and advice on organised sport participation events
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer transport guidance for operators
Safer working principles and risk assessment for transport operators and organisations- local restriction tiers information updated.
TRAVEL:
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 – updated to reflect the latest Tier-based COVID-19 rules for England
Foreign travel insurance
Wherever you’re travelling, it’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance before you go – updated to reflect the latest Tier-based COVID-19 rules for England
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 – information about the Test to Release scheme added.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): General Aviation
Guidance on General Aviation (GA) flying during the coronavirus outbreak. Local tier restrictions replace national restrictions 2 December.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak – local restriction tiers information updated.
Festive travel tips for people considering overseas travel
People thinking about going abroad over the festive period should read the following advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer air travel for passengers
How to travel safely in airports and on aircraft during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
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:
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.