DAILY STATISTICS
Latest UK data:
Positive tests: 1,290,195 have tested positive (+ 33,470 new cases)
Loss of life: *50,923 across all settings (+ 563 in last 24 hours)
Hospital admissions: 1,668 new admissions
Cases in Stockport: 1,064 cases 1 Nov to 7 Nov (-247 on previous week)
Cases in Stockport: 363 cases per 100,000 (England area average: 195)
Deaths in Stockport: 393 coronavirus-related registered to 30 October
Total cases in Stockport: 9,090 to 12 November
R rate in England: 1.1–1.3
*Daily reported COVID deaths are measured across the UK as deaths that occurred within 28 days of the first laboratory-confirmed positive COVID test
The R number and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK.
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
Slides, datasets and transcripts from press conferences at 10 Downing Street in response to coronavirus.
COVID-19: background information
Information on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features – updated global case numbers.
HEADLINES
Walking and cycling schemes streets ahead with £175m funding
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has today (13 November 2020) given councils across England a further £175 million to create safe space for cycling and walking as surveys and independent polls show strong public support for high-quality schemes.
The new money, part of the £2 billion announced for cycling and walking in May, will fund measures including:
- ‘School Streets’, where streets around schools are closed to motorists at school times
- low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs), where residential side streets are closed to through traffic to stop rat-running
- segregated cycle lanes
- pedestrian improvements
These will give people more opportunities to choose cycling and walking for their day-to-day journeys, as part of wider government plans to boost active travel. However, the Transport Secretary has set tough new conditions on councils receiving funding, requiring them to ensure schemes are properly consulted on. This will help avoid the problems seen in a minority of the schemes developed in the first round of funding. If these conditions are not met by a council, the Transport Secretary has been clear that future funding allocations will be reduced and claw-backs could also be imposed.
To help councils implement better schemes, updated guidance, which has also been released today, emphasises the need for practical and pragmatic solutions.
Greater Manchester’s Cycling and Walking Commissioner Chris Boardman said:
“Making it easier for people to get about on foot and by bike is the single best investment that councils can make because it doesn’t just address transport. Time and again, evidence shows that communities that prioritise cycling and walking enjoy major benefits – cleaner air, less congestion, improved health, and even a bigger average monthly spend at local shops and restaurants. Most importantly, it makes our streets happier places to be. I wholeheartedly support the government’s continued funding of this crucial work. The emphasis on more consultation is welcome too, so that we can ensure the best solutions are put in the right locations. If we get this right, many of these pop-up routes and low-traffic neighbourhoods will become a permanent and valued part of people’s daily lives. The industrial revolution started in Great Britain; now we should lead the green revolution.”
Councils will receive funding based on how well they have complied with the criteria set out by the Transport Secretary in July.
Business Secretary gives update following latest covid-related stats
The average number of new cases each day is now 22,524, compared to 22,398 a week ago. There are now 14,196 COVID-19 patients in hospital across the UK, compared to 12,406 a week ago. 1,219 patients are now in mechanical ventilation beds, compared to 1,142 a week ago. And, sadly, another 595 deaths within 28 days of a positive test were reported yesterday. The 7 day average daily number of deaths each day in the UK within 28 days of positive test by date reported is now 375, up from 295 a week ago.
Today, we are also reminded about the vital importance of fighting this virus to protect our economy. Whilst the economy grew by 15% in the third quarter, it slowed in September and remains 8.2% below where we were in February.
Business Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 12 November 2020
Latest findings from COVID-19 study published
Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show infections continue to rapidly increase with over 1 in 80 people infected.
NHS urged to harness local government partners in vaccine rollout
Directors of public health and councils are urging the government and the NHS to engage more closely with them on co-ordinating the rollout of a Covid-19 vaccine, amid fears that the sector’s expertise, assets and resources could go to waste. Following news of the preliminary success of the Pfizer and Biontech vaccine earlier this week, NHS England has been tasked with leading the work to administer a Covid vaccine, in anticipation of a rollout expected to begin as soon as next month. As well as using GP practices and pharmacies, health secretary Matt Hancock said yesterday that large vaccination centres would be set up in sports halls and car parks, with the armed forces on standby to help. Vaccines will be taken to care homes whose residents and staff will be a top priority.
BBC: What is the priority for administering the new Pfizer vaccine?
In the UK, older care home residents and care home staff are top of the preliminary priority list. They are followed by health workers such as hospital staff and the over 80s.
People are then ranked by age, with people under 50 at the bottom of the list.
The first jabs may take place before Christmas if everything goes smoothly.
The vaccine will be delivered through care homes, GPs and pharmacists as well as “go-to” vaccination centres set up in venues such as sports halls.
Graphic courtesy of BBC
National Restrictions Poster
Graphical poster displaying information about the national restrictions in England.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Marketing Manchester launches tourism, hospitality & leisure recovery plan
An eight-point tourism, hospitality and leisure support and recovery plan has been launched to help Greater Manchester’s sector navigate through lockdown before rebuilding following the severe impact of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The plan has been shaped and approved in partnership with the Tourism Industry Economic Recovery (TIER) group, which is comprised of leading voices across the tourism, hospitality and leisure sector including culture, aviation, transport, sport, conferencing, hotels, food and drink and retail.
It outlines three areas that Marketing Manchester and its partners have been, and will continue to deliver: providing a regular programme of business advice and information to support businesses across GM; lobbying for continued Government support; and raising the profile of Greater Manchester’s tourism, hospitality and leisure sector at a national level to make sure its voice is heard.
When the time is right to move towards recovery, the plan prioritises an additional five areas of focus: rebuilding consumer confidence in, and the profile of, Greater Manchester; rebuilding the region’s international profile and connectivity; building back the business visits and events (conferencing) sector; better demonstrating how the tourism, hospitality and leisure sector can support Greater Manchester’s wider strategic objectives; and seeking consensus for a more sustainable structure for DMOs like Marketing Manchester, to ensure businesses continue to benefit from their support and activity.
The plan was launched at a special webinar featuring speakers from Marketing Manchester, including Managing Director Sheona Southern and Director of Tourism Nick Brooks-Sykes, Elise Wilson, leader of Stockport Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA’s) Economy portfolio lead, Hilary Centeleghe, Growth and Startup Lead at Business Growth Hub, and David Martin, Head of Tourism Sponsorship and Strategy at the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.
Business Live: Andy Burnham says ‘strong chance’ will be Tier 3 from December 2nd
The Mayor of Greater Manchester has told business leaders that there is a “strong chance” the region will be placed back into Tier 3 once the English lockdown comes to an end. Speaking at a meeting hosted by the Institute of Directors North West, Mayor Andy Burnham said he was not confident that December 2 – the end date of the current restrictions – will see his region placed into the less severe Tiers 1 or 2.
Active travel fund: local transport authority allocations
Funding allocations for active travel schemes for local authorities in England – updated with the final allocations for the second tranche of the active travel fund. Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s final allocation Phase 1 is £3,174,00; Final allocation Phase 2 is £15,871,250
GM Chamber Covid-19 Tracker / Quarterly Economic Survey
GM Chamber would appreciate it if you fill in GM Chamber’s Covid-19 Tracker / Quarterly Economic Survey. At this critical juncture, when the UK is in a second Covid related national lockdown, this is a vital piece of research that helps us understand the continued impact of Covid-19 on Greater Manchester’s businesses and economy.
Even as businesses are trying to recovery from Covid-19, business support schemes are being wound down with piecemeal extensions and/or new, less generous support. The Comprehensive Spending Review has been postponed and the focus is on the upcoming festive trading season, which business leaders like yourselves expect to be challenging. If you have not filled in the survey yet, please do so today. GM Chamber will be passing your views on to the highest levels of both local and central government. If you have any other questions, please email research@gmchamber.co.uk.
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.
!! The Government have issued updated guidance as of today, 12th November !!
Check for further information regarding qualifying criteria under Business heading
Updated with info for businesses to check on eligibility etc. to the new grants
Here’s the link:
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 24/10/20 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
Stockport Council will also be offering business grants under a discretionary scheme. Details of these schemes are currently being finalised and will be published and open for applications shortly. More information on these will be provided as soon as it is available.
Coronavirus grant funding: local authority payments to small and medium businesses
Local authorities have received and distributed funding to support small and medium businesses in England during coronavirus. Final figures for 3 schemes published.
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:
Penalties for not telling HMRC about coronavirus (COVID-19) support scheme overpayments – CC/FS11a
If you’ve received a grant but were not eligible or you’ve been overpaid, find out about penalties you may have to pay if you do not tell HRMC.
Government to host webinar for business as Brexit transition period ends
Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, BEIS is hosting its latest UK Transition Forum webinar for businesses preparing for new rules after the transition period ends. The transition period during which the UK remains under EU rules comes to an end on 31st December: the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) are hosting an online webinar for business representative organisations and trade associations on Thursday 19th November at 2pm to help businesses prepare for the changing rules.
The forum will include updates on Trader Support Service (TSS): TSS will support companies with the changes to Northern Ireland trade which take effect on 1 January 2021. The free-to-use service will provide guidance and training, a digital service to support declarations, and support from customs experts and UK-EU negotiations. The webinar will take place over the Microsoft Teams platform, and attendees can register on Eventbrite using the password Transition19.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: step by step guide for employers
This guide explains the information that employers need to provide to claim for their employees’ wages. Step by step for employers guide (English and Welsh language versions) updated after the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was extended on 5 November 2020.
Lenders participating in the Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) are now able to extend their offering.
From this week, smaller businesses will have access to a top-up to their existing loan if they originally borrowed less than the maximum amount available. This will be provided by several large lenders, with others anticipated to make the offer available in due course.
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This document sets out guidance for apprentices, employers, training providers and assessment organisations in response to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) – updated with information about the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the national restrictions guidance, the package of support available for those who have been made redundant on or after 15 October, and functional skills.
As Stockport’s business community prepares for recovery post-coronavirus, a group of business leaders from the town have collaborated with Stockport Council to launch a new website – skbusinessrecovery.co.uk to support businesses through the phases of recovery.
COMMUNITY:
Testing for coronavirus at home
How to use your coronavirus (COVID-19) home test kit.
Coronavirus and the social impacts on Great Britain: 13 November 2020
Indicators from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey covering the period 4 to 8 November 2020 to understand the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on people, households and communities in Great Britain.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and prisons
Guidance for families and friends of people in prison in England and Wales during the coronavirus pandemic.
COVID-19: mitigating impacts on Gypsy and Traveller communities
Lord Greenhalgh, Communities Minister, has written to local authority chief executives to highlight the support needed by some members of Gypsy and Traveller communities.
Coronavirus Community Support Fund awarded to 8,250 charities
Small and medium charities across England get share of £200m emergency funding.
CONSTRUCTION:
Graham lands fit out at Manchester Airport
The Hut Group, one of the world’s largest online beauty and wellbeing businesses, has awarded Graham the interior fit-out of its ICON Studios and ICON Offices scheme at Airport City in Manchester.
DIGITAL, CULTURE, MEDIA & SPORT:
Supporting digital skills will be central to our economic recovery
Last month, Digital Leaders launched the seventh local digital skills partnership to launch in England. The launch of this partnership comes at a critical time as we look to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporting skills development will positively contribute to that recovery. The partnership is bringing together digital advocates and key leaders from across business, education, local communities and the third sector to form a collaborative partnership to support the region’s vision to transform lives through digital tech. Working together provides a unique and exciting opportunity to influence the digital skills landscape.
We know that 11.9 million adults across the UK don’t have basic digital skills and 52% of adults don’t have the essential digital skills needed for the workplace. Supporting and improving this will be central to our economic recovery. It is now more important than ever that we find new ways to for everyone to gain the skills that local employers need. Our goal is to rebuild a more inclusive and sustainable economy that works for everyone.
Written by Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Chair of the Future-Ready Skills Commission.
Tickets for the Digital Skills Festival Conference 2021 now available
The Digital Skills Festival conference is for industry professionals, education experts and policy makers to discuss and share strategies for tackling the skills issues facing our industry.
Daily Visitors to DCMS Sponsored Museums and Galleries
These experimental statistics show the number of daily visits to DCMS sponsored museums and galleries. For final visitor figures, refer to the monthly report.
EDUCATION:
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care
Preventing and controlling infection, including the use of PPE, in education, childcare and children’s social care settings during the coronavirus outbreak – updated ‘What specific steps should be taken to care for children with complex medical needs, such as tracheostomies?’ to include guidance on aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) in education and children’s social care settings.
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak
Sets out what further education (FE) providers need to know for the autumn term so that students of all ages can benefit from their education and training in full.
Reported coronavirus (COVID-19) cases 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.
HEALTH, CARE & WELLBEING:
COVID-19: letters to clinically extremely vulnerable people
Reference-only versions of letters from the government to people who are clinically extremely vulnerable, including accessible formats.
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.
Speech to NHS Clinical Commissioners conference
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock spoke about how we can use the lessons learnt during the pandemic to build a better health service for everyone.
Wider impacts of COVID-19 on health monitoring tool
National monitoring tool that brings together metrics to assess the wider impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) on health.
National flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports
National influenza and COVID-19 report, monitoring COVID-19 activity, seasonal flu and other seasonal respiratory illnesses.
Weekly national flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports published
National influenza and COVID-19 report, monitoring coronavirus (COVID-19) activity, seasonal flu and other seasonal respiratory illnesses.
COVID-19: mental health and wellbeing surveillance report
This is a routinely updated report about population mental health and wellbeing in England during the COVID-19 pandemic. All relevant chapters updated. Academic studies included up to 4 September 2020; weekly data may be more recent.
COVID-19 mental health and wellbeing surveillance: Spotlights
Spotlight reports are part of the COVID-19: mental health and wellbeing surveillance report. They describe variation among the population.
REACT-1 study of coronavirus transmission: October 2020 final results
Results of real-time assessment of community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) during October 2020.
People with learning disabilities had higher death rate from COVID-19
England death rate up to 6 times higher from coronavirus during the first wave of the pandemic than the general population, Public Health England study finds.
Guidance on minimising disruptions to the conduct and integrity of clinical trials of medicines during COVID-19
Actions that trial sponsors should consider to build resilience into clinical trial design
MHRA guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)
We are producing guidance and information for industry, healthcare professionals and patients covering the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey, UK: 13 November 2020
Estimates for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. This survey is being delivered in partnership with University of Oxford, University of Manchester, Public Health England and Wellcome Trust.
JUDICIARY:
HM Prison and Probation Service COVID-19 statistics monthly
Monthly statistics providing data of COVID-19 in HM Prison and Probation Service in England and Wales.
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 – updated HMCTS organisational risk assessment published.
LOCAL AUTHORITIES:
Reallocating road space in response to COVID-19: statutory guidance for local authorities
Guidance for local authorities on managing their road networks in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – strengthened advice on consultation and engagement.
PROPERTY:
Lockdown drives surge in UK interest in property abroad
Lockdown has driven a significant increase in UK residents browsing home overseas, according to new data released by Kyero.com, an online European property platform for UK buyers. Kyero reported a 30% rise in UK visitors to its site between April and June 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Louise Dell, the platform’s founder, said: “Lockdown and widespread remote working over recent months has had a significant impact on the types of people looking to buy property in Europe. Greater numbers of younger people, and those now working remotely full-time – ‘Corona nomadics’ – are considering a move abroad as we all become less tied to the office and are able to live, work and play where we really want to.” In the three months following the start of Lockdown 1 in the UK, Kyero witnessed a 19% increase in interest in overseas property from those aged 25-34 compared to the same period last year.
Analysis: will Covid-19 change how residential property is used and located?
A new report from international law firm Withers claims that Covid-19 is accelerating rapid change in what people want from their homes and how housing developments are designed. The report, featuring insight from fifteen world-leading real estate, business and investment experts, discusses the impact of the pandemic on how residential properties are used, and where they are located. An increased demand for more flexible living space, a greater focus on a home’s locality and nearby amenities, a heightened aspiration for ‘community’ and a greater emphasis on more sustainable and environmentally-friendly construction methods are all key considerations that are driving a rapid shift in where and how new homes are developed in the post-Covid world, according to the experts.
RETAIL:
Half-year revenues have soared by a quarter at B&M during a strong period for the discount retailer.
Revenue for the 26 weeks to 26 September 2020 was up from £1.79bn to £2.24bn. Pre-tax profits increased from £105.9m to £235m. Chief executive Simon Arora said: “The group delivered a strong performance in the first half, with our business model proving well-attuned to the evolving needs of customers. During such challenging times, we have been proud to play an active role in supporting the communities in which we operate, having created over 1,800 new jobs across the group during the past six months in addition to repaying the £3.7m furlough support originally received during the height of the crisis.”
Read more at Insider
TRANSPORT:
Public attitudes towards traffic and road use
Research exploring people’s attitudes towards traffic and road use in England.
TRAVEL:
Iberia announce Christmas get-away routes to Canary Islands
Iberia Express, the low-cost airline of the Iberia Group, has strengthened its winter program with the incorporation of direct routes this Christmas from Manchester to the Canary Islands, specifically to Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, as well as the Spanish capital, Madrid. This is the first time the airline will operate direct flights that connect the British market with the Canary archipelago, a great commitment to regain connectivity on these noteworthy dates.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps confirmed the latest changes to the government’s travel corridor list in a string of tweets issued shortly after 5pm on Thursday (12 November). Those arriving from the UAE after 4am on Saturday (14 November) will no longer have to self-isolate for 14 days. However, those arriving from Greece – with the exception of those arriving from Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, Zakynthos and Kos – will now have to self-isolate for 14 days, also starting from 4am on Saturday.
South Africa plans to reopen its borders to travellers and tourists from all countries.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa would open up international travel to all countries, subject to various health protocols – including certification of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of arrival. The president said the country would use rapid Covid tests and strict monitoring to control any spikes in Covid infection resulting from the move.
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.
Bahrain, Cambodia, Chile, Iceland, Laos, Qatar, UAE and Turks and Caicos Islands will be added to the list 4am 14 November. Greece, except the islands of Corfu, Crete, Kos, Rhodes and Zakynthos will be removed from the list 4am 14 November.
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:
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 your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Check which employees you can put on furlough to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Calculate how much you can claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Steps to take before calculating your claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Check if you can claim for your employees’ wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
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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