COVID-19: THE LATEST
See our Covid-19 hub for news and updates.
England
Schools have reopened as part of the first step of the Government’s roadmap for England. Non-essential retail, including hairdressers, nail salons and outdoor hospitality venues can reopen on 12 April, subject to vaccine deployment and infection rates.
Scotland
This week First Minister Nicola Sturgeon outlined the timetable for easing restrictions in Scotland, with new re-opening grants for firms in retail and hospitality. On the BBC and in The Scottish Sun, FSB’s Andrew McRae welcomed the news but warned the crisis is far from over for independent and local firms.
Northern Ireland
The current restrictions will be in place until 1 April, after which point, some minor relaxations will be introduced. From 1 April, garden centres and plant nurseries will be able to operate on a click and collect basis. From 12 April, if ratified by the Executive, all of non-essential retail will be permitted to operate click and collect.
Wales
The First Minister has announced a number of dates in the coming months which in which hairdressers, barbers and non-essential retail can begin to reopen. Those firms required to continue to close will be eligible for an additional grant of £4,000 to £5,000.
TRANSITION
The transition period came to an end on December 31 2020. If you are a UK business which trades with Europe, you will need to change your procedures and complete additional paperwork. See FSB's transition hub for further advice.
Transition Support Fund
The £20m SME Brexit Support Fund is now open for applications. It supports small and medium sized businesses adjust to new customs, rules of origin, and VAT rules when trading with the EU.
ADVICE AND OPPORTUNITIES
Digital Leaders Week
Businesses which run workshops, webinars and other online events can register for the Digital Leaders Week 2020, which runs from 14 to 18 June 2021.
#MyWholeSelf day
FSB supports Mental Health First Aid England’s #MyWholeSelf day, to empower employers to have conversations about mental health. FSB National Chair Mike Cherry said: “As we navigate lockdowns, creating an environment where both you and your staff have the space to be open and honest is important.”
IR35 changes
Employment and tax specialist Rebecca Seely-Harris has created an FSB guide to off-payroll working as changes to IR35 kick in on 6 April.
Championing small firms in Parliament
The Small and Micro Business APPG has resumed its role in championing the future of the UK’s small firms and sole traders, with FSB providing the Secretariat. MP Saqib Bhatti was appointed as Chair of the group, which will primarily focus on what can be done to ensure a successful small business-led economic recovery. The APPG will next meet on Wednesday (March 24) to discuss business rates reform.
Help to Grow
Register your interest for the Government’s Help to Grow course, a management scheme that provides world-class training for the leaders of small and medium sized businesses.
Free workplace testing
Small businesses can order free rapid lateral flow tests twice a week if they register by March 31. FSB is working with the Government to improve the service.
JOIN BIG VOICE AND MAKE YOUR BUSINESS HEARD
Big Voice is FSB's unique online research community for members. By responding to one of our surveys, members give us the evidence we need to engage with politicians around the world on the subjects that matter to you.