Issue Number 7: Latest updates including a letter to the construction sector

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Covid-19: support for businesses – updated 1 April 2020 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): letter to the construction sector

Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Alok Sharma, has written to the UK’s construction sector, paying tribute to all those who are working within the industry. The Government has advised that wherever possible, people should work at home. However, we know that for many people working in construction their job requires them to travel to their place of work, and they can continue to do so. This is consistent with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice. The industry has worked to develop Site Operating Procedures (SOP), which were published by the Construction Leadership Council. These align with the latest guidance from Public Health England. As this health guidance updates, the SOP will reflect any changes.

New Updates and Guidance

Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on business support grant funding
Guidance for local authorities setting out details of the Small Business Grants Fund (SBGF) and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund (RHLGF). Updated information on state aid, monitoring and reporting requirements, post payment checks, eligibility of charities.

COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing
Advice and information on how employees can look after their mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): temporary changes to driver certificate of professional competence (CPC) requirements
The Department for Transport have set out temporary changes to allow bus and lorry drivers who cannot complete compulsory CPC training to continue to drive.

High street benefits from £22 billion grants and business rates package
From 1 April, high streets begin to receive £22 billion coronavirus boost, with grants of up to £25,000 already being paid into bank accounts of high street businesses. Find out more here.

Chancellor waives duties and VAT on vital medical imports
Chancellor waives import taxes on vital medical equipment including ventilators, coronavirus testing kits and protective clothing. Find out more here.

Requests for Business Assistance

Can your business offer coronavirus (COVID-19) support?
UK Government is looking for businesses who can offer support in the multiple areas and has set up an online tool where businesses can register. To find the list of areas and offer support click here.

If you are concerned about being able to pay your tax due to COVID-19, call HMRC’s dedicated helpline on 0800 0159 559.

Guidance to employers and business about COVID-19

Business Support Helpline 0300 456 3565

FREE ACAS Webinar ‘Coronavirus – an advisory webinar for employers’. Find out more.

Read here for the latest public information and public health advice about COVID-19