During the pandemic measures were brought in to ensure that hospitality businesses no longer needed planning permission to put up marquees on their land and councils no longer needed planning permission to hold an outdoor market. Following a public consultation the government has announced that these measures will be permanent in a bid to draw […] Read more
The Government has announced new financial support for all businesses, and particularly those in the leisure, hospitality, and cultural sectors. Read more
The Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) launched on 6 April 2021 and supports access to finance for UK businesses as they recover and grow following the Covid-19 pandemic. RLS aims to help businesses affected by Covid-19 and can be used for business purposes, including, managing cash flow, investment, and growth. It is designed to support businesses […] Read more
Braintree District Council has been allocated £1.15 million to help businesses impacted by the recent extension in COVID-19 restrictions. This discretionary scheme seeks to help businesses in certain sectors who have had their trade severely impacted by the extension of COVID-19 restrictions, regardless of whether they pay business rates or not. Read more
The SELEP COVID-19 Recovery Funds Programme is a £4.4 million programme of support in the areas of business support and skills. It will be used to support the recovery of the economy in 2021, investing directly in those areas across the South East most affected by the pandemic, and providing businesses with the tools they need to build back […] Read more
The Restart Grant scheme supports businesses in reopening safely as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Grants are available from 1 April 2021. Eligible businesses in the non-essential retail sector may be entitled to a one-off cash grant of up to £6,000 from their local council. Eligible businesses in the hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym sectors […] Read more
Chelmsford City Council has now received confirmation that it will receive further funding for the Additional Restriction grant. If you applied for the Additional Restriction grant by Sunday 13th June 2021 and your business was eligible, they will pay for the period up to 26th April 2021. Read more
The Department for Health has launched a new toolkit for employers to help ensure employees get reliable information about COVID-19 vaccines. Several major businesses, including Asda, IKEA and Santander, have already pledged to promote vaccine uptake with their employees and to allow flexibility for staff to get vaccinated during work hours. Read more
Non-essential retailers, outdoor hospitality and personal care businesses reopen as step 2 of the roadmap out of lockdown began on 12 April. Read more
Essex Business Adaptation Grant Scheme You can get funding to make adaptations to your premises or operations. This could help you remain operable during the restrictions or improve Covid-safety in your venue. Eligibility is decided by district, borough and city councils. Visit your district, borough or city council to view the criteria and apply for […] Read more
