COVID-19: THE LATEST
For all the latest news and updates, visit our Covid-19 hub.
The Department of Health and Social Care has launched a toolkit for employers to help ensure employees get reliable information about COVID-19 vaccines.
Access the toolkit to get materials for you to run internal awareness campaigns, including key messages, posters, fact sheets and videos providing accurate, up-to-date information.
EU TRADE
If you are a UK business which trades with Europe, keep track of the latest changes and developments via FSB's transition hub.
NEWS & OPPORTUNITIES
We need more ambition, small firms tell government
Against a backdrop of rising costs, supply chain disruption and a forthcoming hike in NICs, FSB reacted to speeches and messaging coming out of the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester this week. National Chair Mike Cherry stressed his disappointment at a lack of ambitious policy announcements by both the Chancellor and Prime Minister, that would drive growth, and help small businesses and sole traders as they try and get back on their feet.
Although welcoming an extension of the Kickstart scheme to March 2022 and the return of the employer incentive to create apprenticeships in England, Mike Cherry said: "Rishi Sunak says Conservatives want to be the party of business, but ambition is not enough - small firms need to see action." Reacting to the PM's policy-light speech on Wednesday, Mike Cherry added it was time for the Conservatives "to get back on the pitch". Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng joined FSB National Vice Chair Martin McTague at an FSB and Conservative Home panel event at the conference, discussing a range of issues including tax, green energy, apprenticeships and the forthcoming enterprise strategy.
New FSB sustainability hub
FSB has launched a new small business hub packed full of advice on how to make your business more sustainable. The online hub will be regularly updated with the latest resources, tools and information to help small businesses prepare for changes, go green and be more sustainable.
September furlough claims
The deadline for claims to the Job Retention Scheme for staff furloughed during September is next Thursday, 14 October. Put your claim in here.
Do you have Authorised Economic Operator status?
HMRC is looking for businesses with Authorised Economic Operator status to take part in a pilot scheme for customs duty self-assessment. If you're interested in taking part, contact [email protected]
Foreign currency accounts
FSB members have reported that their banks are attempting to close their foreign currency accounts. Does this apply to you? Get in touch with [email protected]
Covid certification consultation
The Government is seeking views on making covid certification mandatory in certain settings if it is forced to resort to "Plan B" measures for containing coronavirus should cases increase over the winter. The government is particularly interested in views from businesses, event organisers and venue operators, including from those that have experience of using certification on a voluntary basis over the summer, and on the proposals for the workforce. You have until this coming Monday 11 October to respond.
BEIS Committee seeking views on competition
The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee is calling for views on State Aid and Post Brexit Competition Policy, including whether the duties of the Competition and Markets Authority are the right ones, and whether the Subsidy Control Bill's proposed framework is fit for purpose. It is also seeking opinions on competition in digital markets, and whether the CMA should be more interventionist.
Home Office online immigration services
The Home Office would like to speak to small businesses to help make their immigration online services easier to use for employers. If you have employed individuals who require a visa to work in the UK, used to in the past, or if you plan to in the future, your feedback could be really helpful in improving online services. You can help by signing up to take part in research.
FSB webinar on tackling domestic abuse
FSB is hosting a webinar this coming Wednesday, 13 October to help employers and employees create safe spaces to discuss and tackle domestic abuse and mental health issues. Another webinar about discovering and unlocking the hidden value of your business will be held on Thursday, 14 October.
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.