COVID-19 UPDATE
Following last nights government announcement, all non-essential premises must now close. Takeaway and delivery services may remain open and operational in line with guidance on Friday 20 March. Online retail is still open and encouraged and postal and delivery service will run as normal.
See full guidance document here. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close
We are also working closely with Rochdale Council and other partners to bring daily updates for your business as we all deal with the unprecedented challenges of Coronavirus.
If you wish to get in touch to discuss how the BID might support you, please call the office on 01706 926676.
GOVERNMENT ADVICE:
5 STEPS TO TAKE TODAY
1. GET HELP WITH YOUR FINANCES
For small and medium sized businesses, the new Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme is now available for applications. For more information and how to apply, visit our website. https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
You can also speak to your bank or lender to discuss options.
The Bank of England’s new lending facility for larger firms is also open for applications. Find out more on their website. https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2020/march/the-covid-corporate-financing-facility
2. SEE WHAT YOU’RE ENTITLED TO
The government is also making cash grants and additional funding available to certain sectors and smaller businesses.
Find out more about the schemes available, whether you’re eligible and how to apply on our website. https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
3. SUPPORT YOUR STAFF
Through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the Government will pay salaries (at 80% of current pay up to £2,500 a month) for workers who are no longer working and would otherwise be made redundant.
For businesses with fewer than 250 employees, the cost of providing 2 weeks of COVID-19 related statutory sick pay per employee will be refunded by the Government in full. Find out more on our website. https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
You will also find messaging in this toolkit that can be used in your internal staff communications.
4. CHECK GUIDANCE ON TAX
If you are concerned about paying your tax you can talk to HMRC about managing payments.
We have already postponed upcoming VAT payments through to June, cancelled business rates for many sectors and delayed July’s self-assessment tax payments until January 2021. To find out more visit our website. https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
5. FOLLOW THE LATEST ADVICE
Our website will be updated regularly as more information becomes available.
The Prime Minister’s daily press conference, live streamed on the @10DowningStreet Twitter feed, will also provide the latest updates on health advice, support for businesses and employees, as well as a range of other issues.
24 Mar 2020