CORONAVIRUS SUPPORT HUB
Keeping you up to date and supporting your business
As the Coronavirus continues to impact the operations of businesses, learn more about the steps that Chambers and members can implement to minimise impact on local communities and support the UK government’s strategy.
- This information is based on official guidance from the UK government and will be amended as and when we receive updated information.
- If you have any queries please contact us on 01952 208200
Working safely at the BCC during Coronavirus
As we prepare for the transition back to the office in the weeks ahead, this risk assessment provides guidance for BCC staff on how to operate safely within the office environment. This guidance is structured to address the measures set out by the UK government in “Working safely during Covid19’ in offices and contact centres.
Business Advice on the New Telford and Wrekin Coronavirus Test and Trace Program
Dear Business Owner/Manager, As you may have seen recently in the Media, a national Coronavirus Test & Trace program (TTP) has been established. All positive coronavirus test results will be investigated and any recent contacts will be traced and asked to follow Government guidance. Current guidance is in this graphic. Telford & Wrekin Council have […]
A Message from Shropshire Council: how to report Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in businesses
Dear Business Owner, A Message from Shropshire Council: how to report Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in businesses Shropshire Council has welcomed the Government’s phased approach to the reopening of businesses. As we draw nearer to the wider opening of businesses and the retail sector, I’m sure you are busy reviewing your working practices using the available […]
Restart, Rebuild, Renew
Leading the recovery of business. The UK is at a pivotal moment in its recovery from the impact of coronavirus. From the safe re-opening of offices, factories and schools, to the easing of both national and international travel restrictions, these changes and the adaptations to the ‘new normal’ will be felt by businesses up and down the country. In each step […]
Official Guidance from UK Government
Update on local restrictions in the UK In Luton and in Blackburn with Darwen temporary measures to prevent further spread of Coronavirus have been agreed. As a result, changes planned in England will not take effect in Luton and Blackburn with Darwen including the reopening of: Indoor gyms; Indoor fitness and dance studios; Indoor sports courts and facilities; […]
Support available from UK Government
For further information and clarification, view the Coronavirus FAQ’s here. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is delivering a programme of webinars on the measures to support employers and self-employed individuals through this period of disruption caused by Coronavirus. Businesses can register to attend a free webinar to learn more about the support available to help them deal with the […]
FAQs on UK government support measures
Business rates holiday for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses What is it? The UK government is temporarily increasing the Business Rates discount to all businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors in England to 100% for 2020-21, irrespective of rateable value. Businesses that received the retail discount in the 2019 to 2020 tax year will […]
General FAQs
How will the value of the pound change as we ease out of lockdown? Businesses of all sizes, sectors and across every community, region and nation have been impacted by Coronavirus. Its effect on the UK economy is also huge. Some industries have been hit harder than others, such as retailers, hospitality, travel and manufacturing. […]
Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker – BCC
Week 10 BCC Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker: Summer Statement schemes fall short in protecting firms and jobs Results from the latest BCC Coronavirus Business Tracker reveal that businesses are still facing significant cashflow challenges with the schemes announced in the Summer Statement failing to provide support at the scale needed to protect jobs after the furlough […]
Shropshire Chamber Coronavirus Business Survey Results
Survey Results Week 6 – June 1 – 9 Click image to view full results Results drawn from interactions made by both the Chamber Membership Team and DIT International Trade Advisors. The results were collected from a survey conducted between 1st – 9th June. Of those surveyed, 61% were micro businesses, 30% small, 4% […]
Employer and employee support
• Business Planning Companies House: guidance if Coronavirus has affected your company and you need more time to file your accounts. HMRC: tax helpline to help businesses concerned about paying their tax due to Coronavirus. Barclays has an existing £14 billion lending fund which launched in 2019 as part of a three-year commitment to help SMEs build resilience during uncertain times. […]
Business Support Finder
Coronavirus (COVID-19) support is available to employers and the self-employed. You may be eligible for loans, tax relief and cash grants. Use this business support finder to see what support is available for you and your business. START NOW
Coronavirus – Innovate UK funding in response to COVID-19
OVERVIEW £20m de minimis funding available to businesses to fast-track innovation. Full details here. Focus on emerging or increasing needs of society or industries during the pandemic Delivering realistic and significant benefits for society or an industry that has been severely impacted and/or permanently disrupted Proposals must focus on a clear need, and the innovation […]
BCC – Virtual Events
While you are here, take a look at past events CLICK HERE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME In conversation with….Andrew Bailey Tuesday 1 September 12noon – 1.00pm (UK Time) Open to all Please note that registration closes 1 hour before the start time Register here Andrew Bailey – Governor of the Bank of England […]
International Trade
Globalisation has quickly reached almost every corner of the world and businesses are trading and communicating with each other in ways which would have never been possible in the decades before now. As businesses continue to trade throughout the global crisis The Chamber of Commerce’s network is committed to support businesses and help them to […]
Useful Resources
GOV.UK Coronavirus (COVID-19): UK government response COVID-19: guidance for employers and businesses Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for employees, employers and businesses Business rates: expanded retail discount – guidance Coronavirus support for employees, benefit claimants and businesses Coronavirus business support ACAS Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for employers and employees
Coronavirus – Mental Health Support
• 1. What you need to know The coronavirus (COVID19) outbreak is going to have an impact on everyone’s daily lives, as the government and the NHS take necessary steps to manage the outbreak, reduce transmission and treat those who need medical attention. It may be difficult, but by following guidance on social distancing, or staying at […]