The Government have announced a range of packages to support businesses through the Coronvirus outbreak – this is what it means for Manchester.
The Council has already confirmed that no direct debits for business rates will be taken on 1 April until relief has been awarded. This is to ensure businesses are not unnecessarily burdened before the Government’s relief package is put into action.
Government has announced Extended Retail Relief of 100%, for retail, leisure and hospitality businesses. Eligible businesses will receive a new bill showing nothing to pay for 2020/21 in the week commencing 6 April 2020
If the Council believes your business is eligible for the £10,000 Small Business Rates Grant you will receive a letter in the next week (w/c 30 March 2020) asking for your bank details and other essential information.
If the Council believes your business is eligible for the £10,000 or £25,000 Retail Relief Grant and your bank details are on file (because you pay by direct debit), the award should be paid to you week commencing 6 April 2020. If the Council does not hold your bank details, you will receive a letter shortly. The grant will be awarded as quickly as possible following your response.
The Nursery Relief package should be available from 30 March 2020. Eligible businesses will receive a new bill showing nothing to pay for 2020/21.
Businesses that believe they should be eligible for support but have not heard from the Council by 15 April should email: businessrates@manchester.gov.uk and put “Grant – urgent” as the subject.
Please note: businesses do not need any third party support other than Council officers who are ready to help. Third party companies will likely take a percentage of the relief grant you receive.
Cllr Carl Ollerhead, Manchester City Council’s executive member for finance and human resources, said “We have moved quickly to make sure Manchester businesses have the support they need through this incredibly challenging period. We know that this will be a worrying time for many people and we’re doing everything we can to give businesses the help they need.
“Please get in touch if you think your details on our systems are either out of date or incomplete as this will delay any support you are entitled to. And please do not accept third party help to apply for grants or relief. These companies will likely take some of the relief payment meant for you.
“Remember – if you do need support, the Council’s website is being updated constantly with advice and helpful information. We are here to help and we will get through this together.
For more information about business support you can visit:
Council page about business support: https://secure.manchester.gov.uk/info/500361/coronavirus/7928/coronavirus/2
The Business Growth Hub: www.businessgrowthhub.com/coronavirus
If you’d like to speak to The Manchester Business Growth Hub taking calls from Mon – Fri 8-8pm, 9-1pm Sat and Sun call 0161 359-3050
Government support site: www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
