There’s been several important announcements recently regarding support available for those whose employment or business has been adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic—which probably describes most of us! These measures are mostly designed to help those who’ve otherwise fallen through the cracks of the current support available. Here’s a summary of what they are, along with links for more information:
Chancellor extends furlough scheme to end of June: The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme is being extended by one month to reflect continuing social distancing measures. Find out more here.
Cut off date for furloughed workers extended: Last week it was announced that the date for eligibility to furlough workers has been significantly extended to include employees added to the payroll up to the 19th March. Find out more here.
Extension of the Small Business Grant Scheme: An additional £120 million is being made available so that, in addition to a 100% grant on the first property, small business rate payers will be eligible to a 75% grant on all subsequent properties. Applications will be taken from the 5 May. Find out more here.
Further £100 million fund for self-employed: This fund will target newly self-employed people and businesses adversely affected by Covid-19 who are ineligible for other Scottish Government or UK Government schemes. Applications will be open by the end of the month. Find out more here.
Universal Credit: Claimants can now verify their identity through Government Gateway. Find out more here.
The Scottish Government Wellbeing Fund: This fund will support organisations across the third sector that are providing important services for people as a result of coronavirus. Although currently closed, it is anticipated that it will reopen on 7 May. Find out more here.
We hope you found these updates helpful, for more information on what support is available please visit the GrowBiz Coronavirus Support page here.