The network for trade, training and development
We will try to keep this page updated as far as possible in the coming weeks.
UPDATES ON SELF-EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT AND JOB RETENTION SCHEMES. The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme will be extended with those eligible able to claim a second and final grant capped at £6,570. From 1 July 2020, businesses will be given the flexibility to bring furloughed employees back part time. From 1 August employers will have to pay ER NICs and pension contributions. The Government's contribution will further reduce from 80% of qualifying wages (to end of August) to 70% in September and to 60% in October. (29 May 2020)
LOCKDOWN BEGINS TO EASE IN SCOTLAND: PHASE 1. While some outdoor activity restrictions will ease as of Friday, 29 May 2020 the public are still urged to stay at home as much as possible and maintain strict physical distancing when outdoors. (28 May 2020)
ROUTE MAP FOR MOVING OUT OF LOCKDOWN IN SCOTLAND. A route map setting out a phased approach to easing lockdown restrictions while still suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19) has been published by the Scottish Government (see the document on the Scottish Government website). it gives details of a gradual four-phase move out of the current state of lockdown. (21 May 2020)
ADDITIONAL £40M OF SUPPORT FOR KEY SECTORS. The Scottish Government announced that this extra funding will be split between the Pivotal Enterprise Resilience Fund (increased by £30 million to £120 million), and the Creative, Tourism & Hospitality Enterprises Hardship Fund (increased by £10 million to £30 million). Both funds closed to applications on 18 May. Creative Scotland's Bridging Bursaries scheme in the not-for-profit sector also received a £1 million top up. This scheme is now closed. (20 May 2020)
SELF EMPLOYMENT INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME OPENS FOR APPLICATIONS. The UK Government scheme opened on 13 May 2020 weeks ahead of schedule.
STAY AT HOME (advice for people in Scotland) (11 May 2020)
STAY ALERT (advice for people in England) (11 May 2020)
UK GOVERNMENT ADVICE ON WORKING SAFELY DURING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19). Guidance to help employers, employees and the self-employed understand how to work safely during the coronavirus pandemic (11 May 2020). Includes specific advice for offices and shops. See also Health and Safety Executive latest advice including guidance on working safely at home.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN for three new Scottish Government grants for businesses impacted by coronavirus:
CALL FOR VIEWS ON THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON SCOTLAND'S CULTURE AND TOURISM SECTORS. The Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Affairs Committee has launched an inquiry on the impact of COVID-19 on Scotland's culture and tourism sectors and is seeking your views (28 April 2020).
NEW 100% GOVERNMENT BACKED LOAN SCHEME FOR SMALL BUSINESS. The Bounce Back Loan Scheme will launch for applications on 4 May 2020 (27 April 2020).
UK BUSINESS SUPPORT FINDER
ACAS GUIDANCE ON FURLOUGH. ACAS has updated its guidance on furlough and qualifying start dates, following HMRC publishing new details on 15 April 2020. ACAS also has a template furlough letter to download.
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