More firms to benefit from CBILS following changes to loan rules

Changes to state aid rules mean that more small businesses can benefit from the government’s Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS). As a result of EU rules, previously small firms in the ‘undertakings in difficulty’ category were unable to make use of the CBILS. From 30 July businesses in undertakings in difficulty with a turnover […]

FSB calls for further help for employers as furlough wind-down begins

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has called for the government to provide further help to employers as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) begins to be wound down. From 1 August, employers have to pay national insurance contributions (NICs) and pension contributions for furloughed employees. Starting from this date the level of the grant […]

Second round of grants for the self-employed opens

The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) has opened for applications for the second and final grant. Under the scheme, the government pays self-employed individuals a taxable grant based on an average of their earnings over the past three years. The grant covers up to 70% of earnings, up to a limit of £2,190 a month. […]

Lockdown grants welcome but more support needed, say business groups

The government’s announcement of new cash grants for businesses affected by local lockdowns has been welcomed by business groups, including the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). Businesses in England that are required to shut because of a local lockdown will now be able to claim up to £1,500 […]

Chancellor outlines Winter Economy Plan

A new emergency jobs scheme will be introduced to protect jobs during the coronavirus (COVID-19) downturn this winter, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced. The Jobs Support Scheme, which will replace the furlough scheme when it ends on 31 October, will see workers get up to 77% of their normal salaries for six months. It aims […]