The Government’s guidance, which is updated frequently, will assist employers and businesses in providing advice to their staff on:
- the novel coronavirus, COVID-19
- how to help prevent spread of all respiratory infections including COVID-19
- what to do if someone suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19 has been in business settings
- what advice to give to individuals who have travelled to specific areas
- actions to take if staff come into contact with someone who is self-isolating or is a possible or confirmed case of COVID-19.
Remote working
On Monday 16th March, the Government announced that people should work from home wherever possible. For guidance on remote working, read our factsheets, including:
- Remote working – opportunities and challenges
- The law on flexible working
- Employees who work from home
Government support
On 17th March, the Government announced further measures, saying it would do ‘whatever it takes’ to protect people and businesses. The measures announced include:
- Increasing the amount businesses can borrow through the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme from £1.2 million to £5 million, and ensuring businesses can access the first 6 months of that finance interest free, as Government will cover the first 6 months of interest payments.
- Giving all retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England a 100% business rates holiday for the next 12 months
- Increasing grants to small businesses eligible for Small Business Rate Relief from £3,000 to £10,000
- Providing further £25,000 grants to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses operating from smaller premises, with a rateable value over £15,000 and below £51,000
Back to News- Share:
