COVID-19 DEVELOPMENTS

This week has seen the implementation of the new 3 tier system of Covid restrictions in England.  Apart from Barrow in Furness which is in Tier 2, the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbria are in Tier 1 (Medium risk).  Liverpool is in Tier 3 (very high) and today will be joined by Lancashire with Manchester likely to follow.

People from Tier 2 ‘high risk’ areas can only holiday with people in their household or support bubble.  People from Tier 3 areas should avoid staying overnight in another part of the UK and are likely to cancel or postpone their booking.  If you are a farm with tourism accommodation see the guidance from the CMA (Competition and Markets Authority).  This provides information on cancellations and refunds due to Covid restrictions.

SELF EMPLOYMENT INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME – 2nd CLAIM DEADLINE 19TH OCTOBER

You can claim for the 2nd round of this scheme if your business has been adversely affected by Covid on or after 14 July 2020.  The deadline for this 2nd round is 19th October – see Claim for the SEISS.  The third round of the Scheme will cover the period from November to the end of January and will pay a grant of 20% of 3 month’s profits, up to a maximum payment of £1,875.  A further grant will be available to cover the period from February to the end of April 21.

“BOUNCE BACK” LOAN SCHEME – DEADLINE 4TH NOVEMBER

Don’t miss out on the Bounce Back loan scheme which provides Government backed loans at 2.5% interest.  Deadline is 4th November.

JOBS SUPPORT SCHEME

Last week the Chancellor announced further support for jobs and businesses affected by Coronavirus shutdowns.  Employees who work for firms forced to shut by law because of coronavirus restrictions will get two-thirds of their wages paid for by the government.  This is an "expansion" of the Job Support Scheme, which begins on 1 November and which will be available for six months.  The existing furlough scheme ends on 31st October.

KICKSTART SCHEME

This provides fully-funded 6-month placements for 16-24 year olds claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long term unemployment. Businesses taking on a Kickstart candidate can also apply for £1,500 per job placement available for setup costs, support, and training.
Cumbria Tourism is acting as an umbrella organisation for job placements and is submitting an application on behalf of local businesses next week. If you have suitable upcoming vacancies these can be submitted online here.