The outbreak of Covid-19 has presented our industry with an unprecedented challenge, with all but essential businesses closing from 23rd March 2020.
Visit Kent, along with colleagues from across the tourism and hospitality sector, have been ensuring that the impact on the sector and needs of our businesses are effectively communicated to Government to support our vital sector, to preserve jobs, the economy and future growth. We are delighted that the Government has listened and in response, the Chancellor has announced a package of measures, the headlines of which are set out below.
We will update this page with the latest information on who is eligible and how to access the funding and financial support announced by the government and other organisations.
- Extended Job Retention Scheme, SSP Relief and Self-Employed Support (from 5 November)
- Business Rates Relief and Grants
- Support with HMRC and Tax Payments
- Support with cashflow
- Insurance, Commercial Rent and Planning Regulation support
- District Council Business Support
Read more about funding and support from other organisations including:
Support Hotlines
Recovery Advice Scheme
BEIS has launched the Recovery Advice for Business scheme, supported by the government and hosted on the Enterprise Nation website, gives small firms access to free, one-to-one advice with an expert adviser to help them through the coronavirus pandemic and to prepare for long-term recovery. Thousands of expert professional and business services advisers are on hand to offer free advice, until 31st December. Small and medium sized businesses can sign up, take the diagnostic tool and access support. Advice will focus on key areas:
- accounting and finance
- people and building a team
- planning, strategy and pivoting
- marketing, PR and social media
- technology and digital tools
HMRC Business Support Helpline - 0800 024 1222 Monday - Friday 8.00am to 4.00pm. The helpline will not be available on Bank Holidays.
Kent Covid-19 Business Support Hotline - 03333 602300 Monday – Friday 8.30am – 6.30pm
Coronavirus WhatsApp Information Service
The Government has started a Whatsapp information service to provide official, trustworthy and timely information and advice about coronavirus out to as many people as possible. It will provide information on topics such as coronavirus prevention and symptoms, the latest number of cases in the UK, advice on staying at home, travel advice and myth-busting via a chatbot.
To use this free service, simply add 07860 064422 in your phone contacts and then message the word ‘hi’ in a WhatsApp message to get started.