England is currently under National Lockdown restrictions. It’s vital that we all play our part in limiting the spread of coronavirus by:
- Following the National Lockdown restrictions
- Getting tested and isolating if you or your staff have symptoms
- Remembering Hands, Face, Space
Please visit the Government’s website for the latest information on restrictions and exemptions.
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Grant Allocations: There are many Government grant schemes covering the various periods of national lockdowns and restrictions. The level of grants that a ratepayer business will receive is dependent on the nature of the business and the property’s rateable value. We’ve collated these grant schemes (through to 15 February) in one place on our website, and included a reference table, which can be found by clicking here.
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Crowdfund Westminster: Crowdfund Westminster is returning this spring for another round. It is designed to empower Westminster residents and businesses to fund projects that benefit our communities.
There’s an initial workshop on 10 February between 12pm and 1pm at which you can learn more about the project, as well as get feedback on ideas that you’d love to see made into reality. Click here to sign up for the workshop.
If you are interested in getting involved, you can read about the initiative in detail by clicking here.
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Traineeships and your business: Taking on a trainee right now might sound challenging, but thanks to a Government scheme, your business could receive £1,000 per new trainee you employ, up to a maximum of ten (for £10,000).
A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. They are designed to help 16 to 24 year olds – or 25 year olds with an education, health and care plan – get ready for an apprenticeship or job if they don’t have the appropriate skills or experience. It can last from six weeks up to one year.
Click here to read more about the Government’s traineeship incentive scheme and how it could benefit your business.
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Support for your Business
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Webinar – Access to funding in challenging times: If your business has suffered due to the pandemic, this upcoming webinar from Westminster Business Points and London South Bank University’s Business Solutions Centre can help you advocate for your business and secure the funding it deserves. The webinar will take place on 4 March between 2pm and 3pm. Sign up through Eventbrite by clicking this link.
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Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS): Claims for the third SEISS grant have now closed. The Government will announce more details about the fourth round of grants on 3 March. We’ll inform you in advance of upcoming deadlines for support in this newsletter.
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Free Support for your Digital Transformation: We’re continuing our popular digital skills training series. Join these sessions for expert advice and training to support your business as you digitalise, generate online sales and deliver goods or services during lockdown.
These training opportunities are designed to aid high street businesses in generating sales online as national movement restrictions continue. Spaces are limited and fill up fast, so book your place today.
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London Business Hub Property Advice Service programme: London Business Hub has launched a new service that can assist and guide you on topics such as business rates, lease negotiations and more.
The series of webinars and masterclasses are all free to attend. To view their upcoming webinar dates and find out more about the programme, please visit the London Business Hub website by clicking this link.
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For more information on the ways Westminster City Council, the UK Government and the community can help, please follow the links below:
Whilst we are dealing with a greater volume of queries than usual, if you do need bespoke advice, don’t hesitate to contact our Business Unit as they may be able to help. |
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