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Roadmap out of lockdown

England has now moved to Step 4. Review our guide to find out what changed on 19 July. 

Government unveils lockdown exit strategy | GC Business Growth Hub

HMRC Coronavirus Helpline

HMRC Coronavirus Helpline

Telephone: 08000 241222 (Opening hours are from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday)

Closed on weekends and bank holidays.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Extension to filling accounts with Companies House

From 25 March 2020 businesses affected by coronavirus were able to apply for a 3-month extension for filing their accounts. On 27 June 2020 new measures were introduced by the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act which will provide companies and other types of business registered at Companies House with more time to file accounts.

From 27 June 2020, eligible companies whose accounts’ filing deadline fell between 27 June 2020 to 5 April 2021, got an automatic extension. This was a temporary measure. Any filing deadlines that fall on 6 April 2021 or later will not be automatically extended. Businesses will have to apply for an extension if their company’s filing deadline falls on 6 April 2021 or later and they need more time to file their accounts. 

Companies that are eligible and cite issues around COVID-19 in their application will be granted an extension.

Companies that have already had their accounts deadline extended may not be eligible, as the law only allows a maximum filing period of 12 months.

It’s important to check if you’re eligible for an extension and to apply for an extension before your deadline. You must file your accounts on time or you’ll receive a late filing penalty.

Check your filing deadlines on Companies House service (CHS). The deadlines on CHS are up to date, so you do not need to contact us to find out when your filing deadline is.

For further information visit the Coronavirus guidance for Companies House customers.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Business Rates relief

Business Rates relief for businesses operating in specific industries - retail, hospitality and leisure

In the 2021 Budget, the government announced that they will continue to provide eligible businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors with business rates relief over the 2021 to 2022 tax year. You are eligible if your property is a:

• shop
• restaurant, café, bar or pub
• cinema or music venue
• hospitality or leisure business - for example, a gym, a spa, a casino or a hotel

Eligible businesses could qualify for:

• 100% off their business rates bills for the 2020 to 2021 tax year 
• 100% off their business rates bills for the first 3 months of the 2021 to 2022 tax year (1 April 2021 to 30 June 2021)
• 66% off their business rates bills for the rest of the 2021 to 2022 tax year (1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022) - This will be capped at £2 million per business for properties that were required to be closed on 5 January 2021, or £105,000 per business for other eligible properties

To find out if you’re eligible, contact your local council.

Business Rates relief for children’s nurseries

In the 2021 Budget, the government announced that they will also continue to provide eligible nurseries with business rates relief over the 2021 to 2022 tax year. You could qualify for nurseries discount if:

• you are on Ofsted’s Early Years Register and
• your premises are wholly or mainly used to provide the Early Years Foundation Stage of education

Eligible businesses could get: 

• 100% off their business rates bills for the 2020 to 2021 tax year 
• 100% off their business rates bills for the first 3 months of the 2021 to 2022 tax year (1 April 2021 to 30 June 2021)
• 66% off their business rates bills for the rest of the 2021 to 2022 tax year (1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022) - up to a maximum of £105,000

You can contact your local council if you are not getting a relief you think you are entitled to.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Defer Valued Added Tax (VAT)

Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

The VAT deferral new payment scheme has now closed. Any deferred VAT outstanding after 30 June 2021 will be treated as debt and may be subject to a penalty.

Full details on what to do if you cannot pay your bill can be found here.

Guidance relating to taxable expenses and benefits provided to employees during coronavirus (COVID-19)

The government has released guidance on the Income Tax treatment of certain expenses and benefits paid to employees because of coronavirus. More information including guidance on how to report these to HMRC is available on the government website. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

VAT rate for tourism and hospitality-related activities

• On 8 July, the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak announced a 6-month VAT reduction from 20% to 5% on food, accommodation and attractions such as cinemas theme parks and zoos starting from Wednesday 15 July 2020 and valid until January 12 2021. 
• On 24 September, the Chancellor announced an extension of the cut in the VAT rate to 5% until March 31 2021.
• On 3 March 2021, the government extended the reduced VAT rate until 30 September 2021. To further support businesses a 12.5% interim rate will then apply for a further six months, until 31 March 2022.

More information on which businesses can temporarily reduce the rate of VAT is available on the government website. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Import tariffs on a number of COVID-19 medical products have been suspended

On 16 December, the government announced that import tariffs on medical products used to help fight against coronavirus have been suspended, lowering costs on these critical items for organisations across the UK.

The new measures, which ensure no tariffs will be due on imports of goods including face masks, gloves and other protective equipment, will come into effect from 1 January 2021 and are planned to last for 12 months until 31 December 2021. These will be subject to ongoing reviews.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Super-deduction

To stimulate business investment, the government has announced the introduction of the super-deduction, a new 130% first-year capital allowance for qualifying plant and machinery assets.

Key points to consider:

• In order to qualify, expenditure must be incurred by a company within the charge to corporation tax on or after 1 April 2021 but before 1 April 2023
• The type of assets that may qualify include but are not limited to:  
  • Solar panels
  • Computer equipment and servers
  • Tractors, lorries, vans
  • Ladders, drills, cranes
  • Office chairs and desks
  • Electric vehicle charge points
  • Refrigeration units
  • Compressors
  • Foundry equipment
• Used and second-hand assets will not qualify for the super-deduction
• Expenditure should not be within any of the eight general exclusions in section 46(2) of CAA 2001, which include exclusions for expenditure on cars and on the provision of plant and machinery for leasing
• Expenditure incurred under a Hire Purchase or similar contract will be required to meet additional conditions to qualify for the super-deduction

More information is available in the published tax information and impacts note.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Statutory Sick Pay guidance

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is available for eligible individuals self-isolating because they (or their household / support bubble) are exhibiting symptoms or have been diagnosed with COVID-19. You can now also claim SSP if you are self-isolating because you've been notified by the NHS or public health bodies that you've come into contact with someone with coronavirus. 

Employers can claim back Statutory Sick Pay paid to employees (this is payable from day 1 instead of day 4) due to coronavirus (COVID-19). The repayment will cover up to 2 weeks SSP starting from the first qualifying day of sickness.

If the employer requires evidence:

• an isolation note can be obtained from NHS 111 online (if the employee is self-isolating and cannot work because of COVID-19).
• Individuals asked to shield can provide a ‘shielding note’ or a letter from their doctor or health authority advising them to shield because they’re at high risk of severe illness from coronavirus. 

Self-employed individuals who are not eligible for sick pay can apply for Universal Credit and/or apply for New Style Employment and Support Allowance

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

UK Government COVID-19 Business Advice

The latest guidance for employers and businesses is available on the UK Government website.

• A business support finder tool is also available to help businesses and self-employed people quickly and easily determine what financial support is available to them during the pandemic. The tool can be accessed here.
• HMRC also continue to update and release videos and webinars  to help businesses, self-employed individuals and employers and their employees deal with the economic impact of COVID-19.
• Business Representative Organisations and Trade Associations have also provided coronavirus related support for specific sectors. Support available for the different sectors can be seen here.
• A series of public bodies, organisations and charities have also produced additional resources that may be useful to employers and employees. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

NHS guide to Coronavirus

Consult the NHS website  about COVID-19, including symptoms, testing, vaccination and self-isolation.

The NHS has also created a dedicated webpage to support individuals recovering from COVID-19. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

FCO International Travel advice

Visit our guide for the latest advice and guidance on international travel. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Support for exporting businesses

• SME Brexit Support Fund - this fund has now closed
  This scheme was launched on 11 February 2021 and will provide SMEs that are new to importing or exporting with grants up to £2,000 to help with training or professional advice. More information is available on the government website. 

• General Export Facility (GEF) - On 7 December 2020, the government launched the GEF, a new guarantee scheme designed to provide SMEs with export finance up to the value of £25 million and help them recover from COVID-19. Full details of this scheme can be found through our guide here.
  
  
• On 16 October 2020, the government also launched a new Export Growth Plan to help businesses in England build back better following the pandemic. The plan includes a new £38m Internationalisation Fund from 2020-23 for SMEs in England that will help 7,600 SMEs to internationalist.
  
  
• On 8 September 2020, the government announced a package of new measures to support businesses in the consumer and retail industry to export overseas as part of efforts to help the sector recover from Coronavirus. These include the launch of a Consumer and Retail Export Academy to help businesses export, via a digital learning syllabus. To view the full list of measures announced, visit the government website here.
  
  
• Businesses that export goods or services and have been impacted by COVID-19 can also access these schemes for support:
  • Export Working Capital Scheme - Access to capital finance for export--related projects.
  • Export Insurance Policy - Insurance from UK Export Finance to manage risk in challenging markets. 
  • Direct Lending facility - A loan from UK Export Finance for overseas buyers to finance the purchase of capital goods and/or services from UK exporters.
  • GC Business Finance Export Finance - The Greater Manchester Export Fund provides loans to SMEs looking to trade overseas for the first time or expand their current levels of trade. 
    
    The Department for International Trade – Guidance for UK business trading internationally and financial support.  

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended to 30 September 2021. 

Find out more information about the scheme here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

COVID-19 Finance

For a rundown of the latest finance and funding packages for businesses impacted by COVID-19 visit our dedicated page: COVID-19 Finance | GC Business Growth Hub  

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme

• Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, made a financial statement on March 26 to launch the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme for self-employed individuals that are impacted by COVID-19. 
• On September 24, the government extended the scheme which will run for another 6 months from November 2020 to April 2021. 
• On November 5, the Chancellor increased the value of the next self-employed income support grant from 55% to 80% of average profits.
• On 3 March, the government announced that a fifth and final grant will be provided under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme covering the period May- September 2021

For further details on the extension of the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, please see here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Universal Credit

If you are self-employed you are able to claim Universal Credit, providing you meet the usual eligibility criteria. To support you with the economic impact of the outbreak, and allow you to follow government guidance on self-isolation and social distancing, since 6 April 2020 the requirements of the Minimum Income Floor have been temporarily relaxed. 

On November 3 2020, the government announced that the Minimum Income Floor (MIF) for self-employed Universal Credit claimants which was  temporarily relaxed in March 2020 would remain suspended until the end of April 2021.

In the 2021 Budget, the Chancellor announced that the suspension of the Minimum Income Floor (MIF) for self-employed Universal Credit claimants will continue until the end of July 2021 and will be gradually reintroduced from August. 

For more information on accessing Universal Credit and other Social Welfare Benefits, see here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

EmployGM

In 2020, the Growth Company, in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and delivery Partners launched EmployGM, a service to tackle job market challenges in Greater Manchester as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19). The initiative enables self-employed individuals who have registered a significant drop in work, secure alternative work opportunities in sectors exhibiting increased worker demand, as well as access careers advice and training. More information on the service can be seen here.  

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Guidance relating to work travel

Read our guide for the latest travel advice and guidance for businesses and employers.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Protection for businesses with ban on evictions for commercial tenants who miss rent payments

On 16 June, the government announced that the existing measures in place to protect commercial tenants from eviction will be extended to 25 March 2022. 

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that the restriction on the use of the Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) which restricts the ability of landlords to seize goods owned by the tenant in lieu of rent owed unless the tenant has more than 554 days’ worth of rent arrears will also be extended. 

Legislation will also be introduced to ringfence rent debt accrued from March 2020 for tenants who have been forced to close as a result of COVID-19 business measures until trading restrictions are removed.

The legislation will help tenants and landlords work together to come to an agreement on how to handle the money owed – this could be done by waiving some of the total amount or agreeing a longer-term repayment plan. However, where an agreement cannot be reached, both the landlord and tenant will need to undertake binding arbitration.

As soon as legislation is passed, the commercial tenant protection measures will only apply to ringfenced arrears. This means that landlords will be able to evict tenants for the non-payment of rent prior to March 2020 and after the end of restrictions for their sector and who have not been affected by business closures during this period.

For more information, visit the government website. 

Past Guidance - Timeline 

Government has announced that it will safeguard commercial tenants from evictions due to inability to pay rent because of COVID19 and its impact on the business for the next three months. Additionally, the government announced on April 25th new measures to protect UK high street from aggressive rent collection and closure. These included the ban of the use of statutory demands (made between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2020) and winding up petitions presented from Monday 27 April, through to 30 June, where a company is not able to pay its bills due to coronavirus. Moreover, the government is looking to introduce legislation to prevent landlords from using Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) unless they are owed 90 days of unpaid rent. More information on the measures can be seen here. 

On 5th June, the government announced a 2 month extension to the eviction ban which will come into play on 25 June applying to home owners, commercial and leasehold. This will protect renters from evictions until the 23rd August. 

On June 19, the government published a code of conduct to encourage commercial tenants and landlords to work collaboratively to protect viable businesses and support their recovery planning.

On 21 August, the government announced an additional 4 week extension to the eviction ban, and the introduction of new 6 month notice periods which will be in place until at least 31 March 2021 to provide residential tenants with greater protection from eviction over the winter. 

Commercial tenants will also be protected from the risk of eviction until 31 December 2020. In addition, the government will also extend the restriction on landlords using Commercial Rents Arrears Recovery to enforce unpaid rent on commercial leases, until the end of the year. 

On 17 September, the government published guidance for landlords and tenants in the private and social rented sectors to explain the possession action process in the county courts in England and Wales. Further guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities in the private and social rented sectors is available through the government website. 

On 5 November, the government announced that:

• Evictions will not be enforced whilst national restrictions are in place (5 Nov - 2 December) and
• Evictions will not be enforced by bailiffs until 25 January 2021 at the earliest, except for the most egregious cases where tenants have demonstrated anti-social behaviour or are the perpetrator of domestic abuse in social housing

 The full guidance applying to landlords and tenants in the private and social rented sectors is available here.

On 9 December, the government extended the business eviction ban until the end of March 2021. The restriction on landlords using Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) to recover unpaid rent will also automatically extend to the end of March, in line with the moratorium’s expiry date.

On 8 January, the government announced that tenants in the social and private rented sectors will be protected from eviction with bailiffs not enforcing evictions for 6 weeks until 22 February, and no evictions expected to 8 March at the earliest.

On 16 February, the Housing Secretary extended the ban on bailiff evictions for another 6 weeks - until 31 March. Exceptions to this are for the most egregious cases – anti-social behaviour, illegal occupation and extreme rent arrears equivalent to 6 months’ rent or more. Landlords also continue to be required to give 6-month notice periods to tenants except in the most serious circumstances.

On 10 March 2021, the government extended the ban on commercial evictions to 30 June 2021. 

On 12 May 2021, the government announced the existing ban on bailiff-enforced evictions, introduced as an emergency measure during lockdown, would end on 31 May. From 1 June 2021, landlords must serve at least 4 months’ notice in all but the most serious cases. More information is available through the Guidance for landlords and tenants. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Growth Company Guide to Remote Working

The Growth Company's guide provides detailed information on the right systems and tools you need to have in place to ensure long-term success when working remotely. 

Access the guide here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Advice to support mental health during coronavirus outbreak

The Growth Company has developed a Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources pack, which businesses can access here. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Conducting right to work checks

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the government temporarily adjusted the way right to work checks were being carried out.

The following temporary changes were made on 30 March 2020 and remain in place up to and including 5 April 2022.

• checks can currently be carried out over video calls
• job applicants and existing workers can send scanned documents or a photo of documents for checks using email or a mobile app, rather than sending originals
• employers should use the Employer Checking Service if a prospective or existing employee cannot provide any of the accepted documents

Employers do not need to carry out retrospective checks on those who had a COVID-19 adjusted check between 30 March 2020 and 5 April 2022 (inclusive).

Deferring the end date of the adjusted checks to 5 April 2022 ensures the Right to Work Scheme continues to operate in a manner that supports employers, whilst the government looks to implement a long-term, post-pandemic solution (new guidance will be issued ahead of 6 April 2022)

More information is available on the government website. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

EmployGM

EmployGM, a service developed by the Growth Company, in partnership with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and delivery Partners aims to connect employers with urgent temporary vacancies and match them with individuals immediately available to carry out the work. Full details of the service and the support available can be seen here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Actions to help the fight against COVID-19

• We all have a role to play in reducing the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the government has published a quick guide on what we can all do to help which is available here.
  
  
• To support the fight against COVID-19, businesses can:
  
  
  • Promote and enable safe volunteering
    • Employers should especially consider directing their furloughed staff to available volunteering opportunities. During hours which you record your employee as being on furlough, they can take part in volunteer work provided it is for another employer or organisation. To find local opportunities, employees can visit the Manchester Community Central’s Volunteer Centre Manchester.
  • Support those experiencing homelessness
    • Businesses can respond to the appeal to support homelessness charities launched by Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, which is asking businesses in the region for bulk supplies of food packages, hygiene packages and others. Businesses interested and able to support the ask can get in touch with the charity by clicking here.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Support for the charity sector

Financial support available 

Summaries of funding available to social enterprises, charities and other VCSE organisations can be seen through the links below:

• GMCVO (Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisation)
• Charity Bank 
• Charities Aid Foundation 

Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund - closed 31 March 2021

Support is available through the Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund (RRLF) run by Social Investment Business (SIB) providing loans for working capital for business models interrupted by COVID-19. SIB has also announced that £4m worth of grant funding has been made available to be used alongside the Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund to support charities and social enterprises based in and delivering the majority of their impact in England. RRLF closes to new applications at 11.59 pm on Wednesday 31 March 2021.

Youth Covid-19 Support Fund - Applications closed on 19 February 2021

The Youth Covid-19 Support Fund will provide grant funding to grassroots youth clubs, uniformed youth groups, and national youth and umbrella organisations. It has been designed to help to mitigate the impact of lost income during the winter period due to the coronavirus pandemic and ensure services providing vital support can remain viable.

Grants are available for essential business costs incurred between 1 November 2020 and 31 March 2021 and these can include staff salaries as well as fixed/operational costs (i.e. rent, utility costs, insurances, facility or equipment hire and others).

To apply for a grant you must be one of the following:
• a registered Charity
• an incorporated not for profit organisation
• an incorporated Community Interest Company

Full details on eligibility and how to apply are available through the Fund's dedicated website.

Thriving Communities Fund - applications closed on 8 January 2021

This funding is designed to increase social connectedness, and help communities cope with the impact of COVID-19.

Applications can be led by voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCSFE) organisations working in any of the following sectors:

• Arts, and culture, including libraries, museums and heritage
• Sport, leisure and physical activity organisations
• Financial wellbeing, advice, food and practical support
• Environment and nature-based organisations
• Non-statutory health and care organisations, working with social prescribing link workers

For more information and to apply, visit the Art Council's website.

Previous support announced

On 8^th April, the Chancellor announced a £750m package of financial support to help charity and voluntary organisations providing key services and support to vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 crisis.

£370m will support small, local charities working with vulnerable people (In England, £310m will be provided through the National Lottery Communities Fund, and £60m will be allocated to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through the Barnett Formula) whereas £360m will be directly allocated by the government, with up to £200m of these grants supporting hospices, and the rest going to organisations such as St John Ambulance, Citizens Advice Bureau and to charities supporting vulnerable children, or victims of domestic violence. An additional £76m government funding to support survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence and vulnerable children and their families as well as victims of modern slavery was announced on May 2nd.

As part of this package, the government announced on the 7th May the launch of a £10m Domestic abuse safe accommodation: COVID-19 emergency support fund and invited domestic abuse charities providing safe accommodation (including refuges) in England to submit their application by the 21st May. On 5 June, the government reopened the fund for applications on a "first come first served basis". The remaining amount of £1.2 million was open for bidders to apply until 20 July. For more information and to view the list of successful bidders, see here.

To view available funds and how to apply for them see here.

Further details on the government funding for charities can be seen here. Other funding opportunities including the National Emergencies Trust (NET) Coronavirus Appeal, the Big Society Capital loans and investment and others can be seen here.

On 25th June, the Office for Veterans' Affairs (OVA) and the Ministry of Defence announced that 100 Armed Forces charities will benefit from approximately £6million of additional funding to support serving personnel, veterans and their families during the coronavirus pandemic.

The government has also said that charities can access many of the measures the Chancellor has announced for businesses. Specifically regarding the Business Rates Reliefs and Grant Funding available to the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality sectors, this guide can help charities understand whether or not they might be eligible for the support.

Government guidance has also been released to generally support charities operating during the pandemic

Local support 

Specific support for Greater Manchester organisations can be seen below:

GM wide

• Forever Manchester Community Support Fund – offering awards of up to £5,000 to help local communities during the coronavirus outbreak (This fund is now closed for applications).
• Manchester Community Central’s – sources of funding page

Stockport -  Stockport Local Fund offering grants of up to £1000 to organisations supporting the Covid-19 response in Stockport, especially those supporting vulnerable groups

Salford - Salford Crisis Fund providing VCSE organisations with grants of up to £500 to help address immediate need arising from the pandemic

Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside - Community Response Fund offering grants for either up to £200 or up to £1,000

Bolton - Bolton’s Fund Covid-19 Resilience Grant offering grants of up to £1,000

Wigan – Support can be seen via the the Community Partnership’s page

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested

Anyone exhibiting symptoms in the UK must get tested and self-isolate. Individuals can book a visit to a test site or order a home swab test kit online through the government website. The government has published information on How to use your coronavirus (COVID-19) home test kit.

Once you’ve received a coronavirus home test kit, you must register it in order to receive your results. 

In addition to testing being available for people with symptoms, asymptomatic testing is also available. For more information on community and workplace testing for people without coronavirus symptoms, read our guide here. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Pension Guidance

The Pensions Regulator has released guidance for employers relating to automatic enrolment duties, maintaining pensions contributions, and also outlining information about the Government’s Job Retention Scheme and how this might impact payroll processes and pension contributions. More information can be seen here.

Personal Protective Equipment in the workplace

1. PPE

In accordance with the  Government Working Safely guidance, where you’re already using PPE in your work activity to protect against non-COVID-19 risks, you should keep doing so. Any use of PPE should be determined by an assessment of risks in the workplace.

Do not encourage the precautionary use of PPE to protect against COVID-19 unless you’re in a clinical setting or responding to a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19.

 
2. Cleaning  

The minimum PPE to be worn for cleaning an area after a person with symptoms of COVID-19, or confirmed COVID-19, has left the setting, is disposable gloves and an apron. Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after all PPE has been removed.

If a risk assessment of the setting indicates that a higher level of virus may be present (for example, where someone unwell has spent the night such as in a hotel room or boarding school dormitory) then additional PPE to protect the cleaner’s eyes, mouth and nose may be necessary. The local Public Health England (PHE) Health Protection Team can advise on this.

3. Face Coverings    

A face covering is something that safely covers your mouth and nose and is not the same as the surgical masks or respirators used as part of PPE used by healthcare. 

Face coverings are no longer required by law. However, the government expects and recommends that people continue to wear face coverings in crowded, enclosed spaces. Where worn correctly, this may reduce the risk of transmission to themselves and others.

Employers could consider encouraging, for example through signage, the use of face coverings by workers and customers particularly in indoor areas.

When deciding whether you will ask workers or customers to wear a face covering, you would need to consider the reasonable adjustments needed for staff and clients with disabilities. 

Some people are not able to wear face coverings, and the reasons for this may not be visible to others. Please be mindful and respectful of such circumstances. Be aware that face coverings may make it harder to communicate with people who rely on lip reading, facial expressions and clear sound.

The government has published guidance to support individuals and businesses safely dispose of personal or business waste, including face coverings and personal protective equipment (PPE), during the coronavirus pandemic.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Complete a health and safety risk assessment that includes the risk from COVID-19

As part of managing the health and safety of your business, you must control the risks in your workplace. To do this you need to think about what might cause harm to people and decide whether you are taking reasonable steps to prevent that harm. This is known as risk assessment and it is something you are required by law to carry out. COVID-19 is a workplace hazard and you must manage it in the same way as other workplace hazards. 

If you have fewer than five employees or are self-employed you don't have to write anything down as part of your risk assessment. Employers with over 50 employees are expected to publish the results of their risk assessment on their website. 

The Health & Safety Executive website has lots of information about managing risks at work and advice on how to carry out and complete a risk assessment during the coronavirus pandemic.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Keeping your staff safe

Staff who have been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable from coronavirus (COVID-19) are no longer advised to shield. As restrictions have been eased following the move to Step 4 of the Roadmap, the government is advising clinically extremely vulnerable people, as a minimum, to follow the same guidelines as everyone else.

Clinically extremely vulnerable individuals can also choose to take additional precautions to protect themselves and some examples are outlined below:

• Individuals may choose to limit the close contact they have with those they do not usually meet with in order to reduce the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19
• Individuals could also:
  • meet outside if possible
  • make sure the space is well ventilated if they meet inside; open windows and doors or take other action to let in plenty of fresh air 
  • consider whether they are vaccinated and whether those they are meeting have been vaccinated – they might want to wait until 14 days after their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine before being in close contact with others
  • consider continuing to practice social distancing if that feels right for them
  • ask friends and family to take a lateral flow test before visiting them

Employers still have a legal responsibility to protect their employees and others from risks to their health and safety and you should be able to explain to your staff the measures you have in place to keep them safe at work. ’Working Safely’ guidance has been updated to provide examples of sensible precautions you can take to reduce risk in your workplace. You should take account of this guidance in preparing the risk assessment you are already required to make under pre-pandemic health and safety rules.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has also published specific guidance on protecting vulnerable workers during the coronavirus pandemic, including advice for employers and employees on how to talk about reducing risks in the workplace.

As for any workplace risk, businesses must also take into account specific duties to those with protected characteristics, including, for example, expectant mothers who are, as always, entitled to suspension on full pay if suitable roles cannot be found. 

For further information, please see the Government's guidance on protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Temperature checks

There is currently no requirement for businesses to carry out temperature checks. The Government says there is little scientific evidence to support temperature screening as a reliable method for detection of COVID-19 or other febrile illness, especially if used as the main method of testing. 

The MHRA recommends that businesses and workplaces don't rely on temperature screening products for the detection of coronavirus (COVID-19) and instead follow the government advice on safe working during COVID-19, as well as implement scientifically reliable methods of testing for COVID-19.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Your staff's health

To support employers, businesses and workers to manage the emergence of COVID-19 cases in the workplace, whilst supporting the NHS test and trace service we have developed a quick guide, which is available here. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Defining a "contact"

Government guidance states that a contact is a person who has been close to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. You can be a contact any time from 2 days before the person who tested positive developed their symptoms (or, if they did not have any symptoms, from 2 days before the date their positive test was taken), and up to 10 days after. 

A contact can be anyone: 

• living in the same household as someone with COVID-19 symptoms or who has tested positive for COVID-19
• who has had any of the following types of contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 with a PCR test:
  
  • Face-to-face contact at a distance of less than 1 metre
  • Been within 1 metre for one minute or longer without face-to-face contact
  • Been within 2 metres of someone for more than 15 minutes (either as a one-off contact or added up together over one day)
  • Travelled in a car or small vehicle with someone 
  • Sat close to someone on a plane

Interaction between 2 people having taken place through a Perspex (or equivalent) screen, will not be considered sufficient contact, provided that there has been no other contact. 

More information can be seen via the government's page here. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Domestic abuse: get help during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

The government has published a resource page with support available for victims of domestic abuse. The resources also include advice and guidance for employers, professionals and those working in the domestic abuse sector. 

Household isolation instructions as a result of coronavirus do not apply if an individual needs to leave their home to escape domestic abuse.

Further support available

1. National Domestic Abuse helpline 

Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline offers free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. Further information including a contact form and a live chat service is available through the website.

If an individual is in immediate danger, they should call 999 and ask for the police.

2. Codeword scheme

If an individual is experiencing domestic abuse and needs immediate help, they can ask for ‘ANI’ in a participating pharmacy. ‘ANI’ stands for Action Needed Immediately but also phonetically sounds like the name Annie. If a pharmacy has the ‘Ask for ANI’ logo on display, it means they’re ready to help. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Social Distancing - Government guidance

From 19 July 2021, social distancing guidance no longer applies and there are no limits on social contact between people from different households.

COVID-19 can still be spread through social contact though and you can find examples of measures you can implement to mitigate this risk in workplace in the government's Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance from Step 4

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Guidance on disposing waste during the coronavirus pandemic

The government has published detailed guidance to support individuals and businesses safely dispose of waste including face coverings, lateral flow device tests and personal protective equipment (PPE) during the coronavirus pandemic.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Small business support scheme

The Peer Networks scheme aims to enhance resilience and recovery from the impact of COVID-19 and enable SMEs to develop their potential for future growth and productivity.

Peer Networks brings together diverse groups of business leaders to tackle challenges and enable peer to peer knowledge exchange. Covering topics such as finance, HR, sales and marketing. Register your interest here. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.
 

Kickstart scheme overview

The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create new 6-month job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Funding will cover for each job placement:

• 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week
• the associated employer National Insurance contributions
• employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions

There is also £1500 per job placement available for setup costs, support and training.

Originally applications had to be for a minimum of 30 job placements, and organisations unable to offer this many job placements could partner with a Kickstart gateway. 

From 3 February 2021, employers can apply directly to the scheme regardless of the number of job placements. However, businesses can also continue to apply through a Kickstart gateway, including those supporting sole traders.

To support businesses, the government has published a series of tips for making a successful Kickstart Scheme application.

To help businesses benefit from Kickstart, the Growth Company has developed three support packages including:

1. Being a Gateway organisation - to help businesses access the scheme regardless of how many placements you are able to offer
2. Being a Kickstart Service Partner offering on-placement support, such as individual learning plans and careers advice/support 
3. Employment services - enabling businesses to host placements without having to worry about employment contract and HR-related requirements.

For more information and to register your interest in a Kickstart application, visit the Growth Company's dedicated page. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Apprenticeships incentive

On July 8 2020, the government announced the launch of a new incentive to encourage employers to create new apprenticeships and hire young people.

For new apprentices who join your business between 1 April 2021 and 30 September 2021 you will receive a one-off payment of £3,000. You can apply for these apprentices from 1 June 2021.

For more information on how to apply, visit the government website. 

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Self-declaring as a private sector COVID-19 testing provider

The government has published guidance on the minimum standards for private sector providers of COVID-19 testing.

To request to be added to the indicative list of providers on GOV.UK, providers must declare that they meet these minimum standards by completing this form.

The government has also published the privacy notice for private sector providers of coronavirus (COVID-19) testing who want to self-declare they meet minimum standards.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

First aid during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published guidance to help employers ensure first aiders are confident that they can help someone injured or ill at work during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Supporting self-isolation due to coronavirus – a guide for business

Our guide will take you through the key steps employers should take to enable staff to self-isolate when required to do so, to stop the spread of coronavirus and help restart the economy.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

COVID-19 vaccines – what you need to know

Visit our dedicated guide to ensure your staff can find accurate and timely information on COVID-19 vaccines.

The information provided is meant as a general guide only rather than advice or assurance. GC Business Growth Hub does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and professional guidance should be sought on all aspects of business planning and responses to the coronavirus. Use of this guide and toolkit are entirely at the risk of the user. Any hyperlinks from this document are to external resources not connected to the GC Business Growth Hub and The Growth Company is not responsible for the content within any hyperlinked site.

Self-isolation guidance

Self-isolation for individuals testing positive

• To help reduce the risk of transmission, from 28 September 2020, individuals are *legally required to self-isolate if they test positive for coronavirus. This means having received a positive Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test or a positive lateral flow antigen test (LFDs) at a test site. A positive LFD test will need to be followed by ordering a PCR test. If the confirmatory PCR is taken within two days of a positive lateral flow test at a test site and is negative your employee will be able to stop isolating. If it is not taken within 2 days, they will need to self-isolate for 10 full days even if they get a negative PCR result. 
  
  *If a staff member has been notified by the NHS COVID-19 app to self-isolate and they apply for the Test and Trace Support Payment, they will also be legally required to self-isolate even if they are not deemed eligible for the payment.
  

Self-isolation for contacts 

• With regards to their close contacts, on 16 August 2021, the rules on self-isolation changed. This means that employees who fall under the following categories are no longer required to self-isolate if they are a contact of a positive case. Instead, they will be advised to take a PCR test as soon as possible and only self-isolate in the event that this is positive:
  
  
  • Fully vaccinated staff
  • Staff who have taken part in – or are currently taking part in – an MHRA approved COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial
  • Staff who can evidence that they cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons
  • Staff below the age of 18 years 6 months
    
    
• Staff do not need to inform employers if they are a close contact of someone who tested positive but are exempt from self-isolation (there is separate guidance for health and social care staff) and employers are not expected to check whether a staff member is exempt from self-isolation. 
  
  
• Please note, employers must not knowingly allow staff who have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been identified as close contacts of a positive case and don’t belong to the groups listed above to come into work. Failure to do so could result in your business facing a fine.
  
  
• However, workplaces in sectors that provide essential services, including food distribution and production, emergency services, transport networks, defence, prisons, waste collection and energy, will continue to be able to use the Workplace Daily Contact Testing scheme to offer daily testing as an alternative to self-isolation for close contacts who are not fully vaccinated enabling them to continue attending work provided they test negative each day. 

Venue alerts

• If someone checks into a venue either by scanning the NHS QR Code or providing contact details and there is an outbreak, that is 2 or more COVID-19 cases on the same day that they visited, they will receive an alert advising them to book a test; there will not be a requirement to self-isolate unless the recipient tests positive for COVID-19.  
• If an individual checked in to the venue by scanning the NHS QR code poster with their NHS COVID-19 app, they will receive a notification sent within the app while an individual who checked in by providing their contact details will be sent a text message.
• Please note, your venue will never be named in an alert. 

Live Events Reinsurance Scheme

On 5 August, the Chancellor announced the launch of a new Government-backed insurance scheme designed to provide confidence to the events industry and its supply chain. 

The scheme worth over £750 million will be delivered through insurers in the Lloyd’s market with events organisers able to purchase cover for government-enforced cancellation due to the event being legally unable to take place due to Covid restrictions, alongside their standard insurance.

If events do have to cancel, after organisers have covered the agreed excess, the government and insurers have an agreed risk share per claim. This starts with government paying 95% and insurers 5%, progressing to them covering 97% and 3% respectively and finally government covering 100% of costs. The split depends on the losses incurred by the insurer from the scheme to date.

The scheme will be available from September 2021 and will run for 12 months, until the end of September 2022.