Latest UK data:
Positive tests: 1,888,116 have tested positive (+ 18,450 new cases)
Loss of life: *64,908 across all settings (+ 506 in last 24 hours)
Cases in Cheshire East: 9,898 confirmed since start of the pandemic, + 418 in the 7 days to 10 December
Rate per 100k population in Cheshire East: 108.8 in the 7 days to 10 December
*Daily reported COVID deaths are now measured across the UK as deaths that occurred within 28 days of the first laboratory-confirmed positive COVID test
The R number and growth rate in the UK
The latest reproduction number (R) and growth rate of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK. The R number range for the UK is 0.9 -1.0 and the growth rate range is -3% to -1% per day as of 11 December 2020.
Coronavirus cases in the UK: daily updated statistics
The latest number of coronavirus (COVID-19) tests, cases and deaths in the UK. The way deaths are reported is based on a 28-day limit between the date of a positive lab-confirmed test and date of death.
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
Slides, datasets and transcripts from press conferences at 10 Downing Street in response to coronavirus
COVID-19: background information
Information on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features – updated with latest global case numbers.
UK HEADLINES
BBC: Covid vaccine: GPs in England to begin offering Pfizer jab
Covid vaccinations will start being given to patients from GP surgeries in England as part of the next stage of the rollout of the programme.
GP practices in more than 100 locations will receive their first deliveries of the vaccine later, the NHS said. Some will start vaccinating on Monday afternoon, with the majority getting under way on Tuesday. Tens of thousands of people in the UK received the Pfizer-BioNTech jab last week in hospitals.
Like last week, GP practices will prioritise over-80s, along with health and care staff.
BBC: No plans change rules over Christmas amid warnings to abide by restrictions
Sterner warnings about the dangers of mixing over Christmas are to be issued by the four UK nations – but sources say the rules allowing three households to mix are “unlikely to change”. Coronavirus rules for 23 to 27 December are being discussed by officials. Cabinet minister Robert Jenrick urged the public to “use their own judgement” on who to see over the five days. Around 61% of England’s population is now living under the toughest rules.
Inflation drops by 0.4% in November alongside second national lockdown
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has published its inflation figures for the month of November. Data from the ONS shows a 0.4 per cent decrease in the inflation rate, coinciding with the country re-entering lockdown in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) 12-month inflation rate was 0.3 per cent in November – down from 0.7 per cent in October. In November, clothing and footwear, along with food and non-alcoholic beverages, all made downward contributions to the inflation rate. The inflation rate from food and non-alcoholic beverages showed the largest negative contribution from the group since January 2017.
First wave of targeted Tier 3 community testing initiatives announced
67 local authorities have been given approval to begin enhanced testing support programmes as soon as Monday to drive down transmission rates in their areas.
EY: UK unemployment rate up to 4.9% and looks set to rise further
The latest labour market report is weaker overall but by less than expected, suggesting that the extensions of the furlough scheme (to the end of November and then the end of March) started to have some limiting impact on job losses. The labour market was also likely helped by the economy’s bounce back in Q3 when GDP rebounded 15.5% quarter-on-quarter after the 19.8% quarter-on-quarter Q2 contraction. There was still, however, a clear decline in the latest labour market data with redundancies climbing to a record high of 370,000 in the three months to October. The number of unemployed people rose by 241,000, although the unemployment rate rose less than expected to 4.9%. Employment fell 144,000. Overall, the latest figures suggest that the original October end-date for the furlough scheme had already prompted some companies to make staffing decisions before the March extension was announced.
Sharp rise in coronavirus numbers and a new variant
The Health and Social Care Secretary spoke to the House of Commons about the coronavirus situation, vaccinations and new areas to be put into Tier 3.
Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 14 December 2020
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.
Slides and datasets to accompany coronavirus press conference: 14 December 2020
Slides on coronavirus presented by Professor Chris Whitty.
Full list of local restriction tiers by area
This page sets out the full list of local restriction tiers by area from Wednesday 2 December 2020. Some areas will change tier on 16 December – updated with areas that will move into Tier 3 from 16 December.
London, South Essex, and South Hertfordshire to move to Tier 3 restrictions
Urgent action needed to reduce transmission of the virus in these areas
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Rapid testing pilots take place across Cheshire East this week
A pilot scheme of rapid testing for Covid-19 is taking place across Cheshire East this week. The tests use a new methodology known as Lateral Flow Testing. These tests have been designed to deliver targeted and focused, rapid testing for people without typical symptoms of Covid-19.The test just takes 30 minutes to produce a result, this is sent via email and SMS confirmation within 45-60 minutes.
Cheshire East Council volunteered to take part in the pilot programme and through this received 10,000 test kits to trial across the borough.
Northern leaders are pushing the Government to invest in the region’s infrastructure to make good on its ‘levelling up’ agenda.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham used the opening of the Transport for the North annual conference to call for urgent delivery of better transport services. Mr Burnham was speaking after Transport Minister Andy Stephenson had defended the Government’s record on transport spending for the North, which has come under fire for lagging behind levels of investment in London and the South East for many years. Bus and train passenger numbers have plunged in the region during the coronavirus pandemic, but business and political leaders are pushing Ministers to ensure that promised spending in the North is not lost as a result of the financial pressures facing the Government.
North West among only regions set for economic growth larger in 2023 than in 2019
When measured by Gross Value Added (GVA), the economies of just five out of nine English regions are forecast to be larger in 2023 than they were in 2019. Three of these regions are in the South: London (0.51% annual growth forecast); the South East (0.39%); and East (0.08%). Annual growth is also expected in the North West (0.11%), while marginal growth (0.01%) is forecast in the East Midlands. Rohan Malik, EY’s UK&I Managing Partner Government and Infrastructure comments: “Despite a challenging backdrop, there are opportunities to reshape the country’s economic geography. The Government’s recent initiatives, including the Levelling-up Fund and National Infrastructure Strategy, are welcome, but new approaches are required to avoid a growing gap between towns and cities, and North and South. “Some of the recent shifts in how we organise work and home life have been positive for economic rebalancing and mean there could be opportunities to create ‘virtual’ jobs in places that have found it difficult to attract higher value-added sectors. A policy focus on supporting sectors, like manufacturing, which matter to both investors and towns would help.”
AGRICUTURE &RURAL AFFAIRS:
Coming to England for seasonal poultry work on farms and processing sites
Advice for seasonal poultry workers coming to England to process poultry on farms and their employers – updated to reflect that the self-isolation period is now 10 days instead of 14, with day zero being the day of contact.
Coming to the UK for seasonal agricultural work on English farms
Advice for seasonal agricultural workers coming to England to pick fruit and vegetables on farms, and their employers – updated to reflect that the self-isolation period is now 10 days instead of 14 with day zero being the day of contact.
BUSINESS & FINANCE:
Income Tax and National Insurance contributions exemption for employer-reimbursed coronavirus antigen tests
This Tax Information and Impact Note is about an exemption from Income Tax and NICs for employer-reimbursed coronavirus antigen tests.
NHS Test and Trace in the workplace
Guidance on what to do if you or someone you employ is contacted by NHS Test and Trace, including self-isolation and financial support – updated to reflect the change in the self-isolation period from 14 to 10 days.
UK top hotspot for overseas resi investment
The UK has ranked highest for future residential real estate investment, in a survey of 500 investors, developers and asset managers with more than $3bn AUM from across Europe, China and the US, suggesting the UK real estate market will remain firmly open for business post-Brexit. The findings from the European Real Estate global survey by international law firm DLA Piper found that, overall, the top five countries for investment in residential assets over the next 12 months are all in Europe, with the UK leading the way (33%), followed by France (28%), Germany (25%), Spain (24%) and Italy (18%).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from self-isolation or passenger locator form requirements.
Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to make your workplace COVID-secure.
Vehicles – updated self-isolation guidance for contacts of individuals who test positive for COVID-19. The self-isolation period is now 10 days instead of 14?(section?2.2).
Tier 1: Medium alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 1 of local restrictions.
Under ‘Financial support’, added links to financial support for businesses.
Tier 2: High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 2 of local restrictions – under ‘Financial support’, added links to financial support for businesses.
Tier 3: Very High alert
What you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 3 of local restrictions – under ‘Financial support’, added links to financial support for businesses.
COMMUNITY:
Council and partners distribute food and energy vouchers to the most vulnerable children and families
Cheshire East Council are distributing vouchers worth £880,000 during the winter months to the most vulnerable children and families to pay for essentials such as food and energy.
Tier posters: Medium, High and Very High
A series of posters displaying information about the various tiers of restrictions in England – tier posters updated to reflect latest information.
COVID-19 vaccination: consent form and letter for adults
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination consent form and letter templates for adults who are able to consent – added open source and MS Word version of the adult consent form.
Getting help with daily activities outside your home during coronavirus
If you need support while outside your home, this guide explains what you and the people helping you should do to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Updated to reflect how the social contact rules in the local restriction tiers apply to people who need support.
COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults
Information for eligible adults on COVID-19 vaccination – updated ‘Those who cannot have the vaccine’ section.
JCHR report on COVID-19 human rights implications: government response
Response to the Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) recommendations on the government’s response to COVID-19 human rights implications.
Making a childcare bubble with another household
How you can get informal childcare for anyone under 14 from friends and family you do not live with – updated guidance to reflect that the 14-day isolation period is now 10 days.
Making a support bubble with another household
How you can safely expand the group of people you have close contact with during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Coronavirus and the impacts on different ethnic groups in the UK
Estimates from the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS) to understand the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on people from different ethnic groups in the UK.
Coronavirus and ethnicity: a summary of what we know
Article bringing together previously released analysis from ONS about how people in society are affected by Coronavirus by ethnicity.
Guidance for contacts of people with confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) infection who do not live with the person
Guidance for contacts of a person with a positive test result for coronavirus (COVID-19) who do not live with that person.
COVID-19: guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection
Stay at home guidance for households with possible coronavirus (COVID-19) infection.
COVID-19: guidance for arranging or attending a funeral during the coronavirus pandemic
Guidance for arranging or attending a funeral during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
CONSTRUCTION:
Mace HQ first building rated to ‘IMMUNE’ Covid-safe standard
Mace’s headquarter in London has become the first building to obtain the new IMMUNE Building Standard. The open-source building standard founded by European property company Genesis Property is designed to help combat health risks in the workplace, reduce fears around Covid-19, and build trust amongst employers and employees in their efforts to return to the office safely.
The certification scheme was set up for office buildings and could also be adapted for buildings in use for hospitality, retail, health care, education, or residential purposes.
Public works procurement shake up to boost SMEs
Fresh plans to overhaul procurement rules, cutting red tape and making it easier for smaller firms to win public works contracts have been unveiled by Government.
It plans to slash around 350 regulations governing public procurement and integrate the current regulations into a single, uniform framework. The Transforming Public Procurement Green Paper sets out proposals to allow public works contracts under £4.7m to be limited to small businesses or to firms from a certain geographical area, allowing a buy British approach.
DIGITAL CULTURE MEDIA & SPORT:
How consumers can keep safe from online scams this Christmas
To help keep consumers safe when shopping online, cybersecurity company, BullGuard, outlines seven top scams, how to spot them and how to ensure you don’t become a victim of fraud this Christmas.
Independent decision-making Board for Sports Winter Survival Package confirmed
Following the Government’s announcement of a £300 million Sports Winter Survival Package to protect the immediate futures of major spectator sports affected by coronavirus restrictions in England, the composition of the independent decision-making Board has been confirmed.
EDUCATION:
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak
Updated the information on remote education and added new information about publishing your remote education offer. We have also changed the isolation period from 14 days to 10 days from the day after the individual tested positive. We have also updated the action list self-isolation information to 10 days from the day after contact with the individual tested positive (from 14 days).
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
What childcare services early years settings, childminders and local authorities need to provide during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – updated information on quality assurance visits, 30-hour entitlements and days of self-isolation.
COVID-19 series: briefing on children’s social care, November 2020
Evidence from assurance visits to secure children’s homes and independent fostering agencies between 1 September and 4 December.
Safe working in education, childcare and children’s social care
Preventing and controlling infection, including the use of PPE, in education, childcare and children’s social care settings during the coronavirus outbreak – updated guidance on PPE supply. Added guidance about residential settings, including information about visits from social care workers and visitors.
COVID-19 series: briefing on local areas’ SEND provision, November 2020
Evidence from education, health and social care leaders and practitioners between 1 September and 4 December 2020.
COVID-19 series: briefing on schools, November 2020
Evidence from interim visits to 297 schools between 2 and 24 November 2020.
COVID-19 isolation having detrimental impact on children’s education and welfare, particularly the most vulnerable
Ofsted publishes the third and final set of reports looking at the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and young people.
HMCI commentary: findings from visits in November
Amanda Spielman discusses what we found in our November visits to education and children’s social care providers.
COVID-19 series: briefing on early years, November 2020
Evidence from research interviews with 739 early years providers between 5 October and 11 December.
COVID-19 series: briefing on further education and skills, November 2020
Evidence from interim visits to further education and skills providers between 19 October and 4 December.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges
Information for schools and colleges about how they will start to test pupils and students from January.
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Attendance in education settings since Monday 23 March and early years settings since Thursday 16 April – added ‘Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: 23 March to 10 December 2020’.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): assessment processes for selective school admissions
Guidance on entry testing for admission to state-funded selective schools during the coronavirus outbreak – updated document with minor changes. These include informing local authorities that late and in-year testing can continue to go ahead, that travel to the test is considered essential travel and that protective measures should continue to be taken during tests.
Higher education providers: coronavirus (COVID-19)
Information on student movements in December 2020, the return of students from January 2021 and NHS Test and Trace channels.
Reported coronavirus (COVID-19) cases by registered early years and childcare settings
This data is published fortnightly. It gives the number of registered early years and childcare providers reporting one or more confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) by week – added data from 16 and 23 November 2020.
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings
What all special schools and other specialist settings will need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak from the start of the autumn term to support the return of children and young people with special education needs and disability (SEND) – updated the isolation period from 14 days to 10 days from the day after an individual tests positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).
School attendance: guidance for schools
Covers registers and attendance codes (including circumstances due to coronavirus (COVID-19)), school hours and term dates, and improving school attendance. Addendum: recording attendance in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19) during the 2020 to 2021 academic year – updated the number of days a person needs to self-isolate after being in contact with someone (member of a household, school community, or local health protection team) who has coronavirus (COVID-19). This is changing from 14 days to 10 days.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): test kits for schools and FE providers
Guidance for schools and further education (FE) providers on the initial supply of coronavirus (COVID-19) home testing kits for pupils, teachers and staff.
HEALTH, CARE & WELLBEING:
Testing for coronavirus before hospital
Sets out how and when to get tested for COVID-19 before a hospital procedure.
List of private providers of coronavirus testing
Information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19).
PHE investigating a novel strain of COVID-19
A new variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) has been identified across the South East of England.
Adult Social Care Infection Control Fund: round 2
Sets out the infection control measures that the new infection control fund will support, including information on the distribution of funds and reporting requirements – updated ‘Annex E: local authority reporting template: reporting point 2 – October-November 2020 spending’.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): local contacts for providers
A list of local contacts for providers who are not on the PPE portal. Providers can get PPE through their local authority or local resilience forum.
COVID-19: investigation and initial clinical management of possible cases
Information on case definitions, and the initial assessment and investigation of possible cases of COVID-19 infection.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): support for care homes
Sets out the support package to keep care homes safe during the coronavirus pandemic – added link to latest overview of adult social care guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): adult social care action plan
How the government will support the adult social care sector in England throughout the coronavirus outbreak – added link to latest overview of adult social care guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19).
COVID-19: management of staff and exposed patients and residents in health and social care settings
Guidance on the management of staff, patients and residents who have been exposed to COVID-19.
Adult social care: coronavirus (COVID-19) winter plan 2020 to 2021
The government’s ambitions for the sector and the challenges facing adult social care this winter.
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.
Tier posters: Medium, High and Very High
A series of posters displaying information about the various tiers of restrictions in England – tier posters updated to reflect latest information.
List of private providers of coronavirus testing
Information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19) – added Nationwide Pathology and Synlab to the list of Test to Release providers, and removed Samedaydoctor. Added Chronomics, DNA Workplace and Synlab to the list of general testing providers. Removed The Private GP Clinic from both lists.
REACT-1 study of coronavirus transmission: November 2020 final results
Results of real-time assessment of community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) during November 2020.
November 2020 findings from COVID-19 study published
Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI show infections fell by over 30% during lockdown and levelled off, with 91 per 10,000 people infected in the most recent data.
PPE deliveries (England): 7 December to 13 December 2020
Experimental statistics showing the latest number of personal protective equipment (PPE) items distributed for use by health and social care services in England.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing: privacy information
Privacy notice for NHS Test and Trace virus testing for all users of the service – updated ‘Testing for coronavirus: privacy information – quick read’ and ‘Testing for coronavirus: privacy information’ to clarify the data registered when self-reporting.
COVID-19 vaccination: care home and healthcare settings posters
Information and promotional resources to support the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme – added revised first phase poster and links to “Get ready” and vaccination session posters.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey: characteristics of people testing positive for COVID-19 in England, December 2020
Data about the characteristics of people testing positive for COVID-19 from the COVID-19 Infection Survey. This survey is being delivered in partnership with the University of Oxford, the University of Manchester and Public Health England.
NHS Test and Trace: how it works
An overview of NHS Test and Trace, including what happens if you test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive.
COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable
Information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19.
COVID-19: guidance for care of the deceased
Advice to assist people required to manage bodies of deceased persons infected with coronavirus (COVID-19).
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme – training slide set updated.
COVID-19: background information
Information on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features – updated global case numbers.
COVID-19 vaccination: information for healthcare practitioners
Guidance for healthcare practitioners about the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.
HOSPITALITY & LEISURE:
Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to make your workplace COVID-secure – The visitor economy updated self-isolation guidance for contacts of individuals who test positive for COVID-19. The self-isolation period is now 10 days instead of 14 (section 3.2).
COVID-19: guidance for food businesses
Advice for food businesses in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in the UK.
JUDICIARY:
Nine more Nightingale courtrooms to be delivered
An extra 9 Nightingale courtrooms will bolster the national effort to tackle the impact of coronavirus on the justice system
Courts and tribunals additional capacity during coronavirus outbreak: Nightingale courts
This page holds a list of additional facilities opening to support the courts and tribunals estate during the coronavirus outbreak.
Preventing and controlling outbreaks of COVID-19 in prisons and places of detention
Information for prisons and other prescribed places of detention on coronavirus (COVID-19).
HMCTS weekly operational summary on courts and tribunals during coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This page provides a weekly summary of the HM Courts and Tribunals Service operational position during the coronavirus pandemic – update for week commencing Monday 14 December 2020 published.
LOCAL AUTHORITY:
Tier posters: Medium, High and Very High
A series of posters displaying information about the various tiers of restrictions in England – tier posters updated to reflect latest information.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice to local authorities on prioritising waste collections
A guide to help waste collectors prioritise their collection services during the coronavirus pandemic. This includes managing household waste recycling centres – updated to reflect that for contacts of positive cases the self-isolation period is now 10 days instead of 14, with day zero being the day of contact.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) test kits for children’s homes
Guidance on when and how to test children and staff, including how to order more tests.
MANUFACTURING:
Insider: Manufacturers look at sectors hopes and challenges
Business leaders operating in the manufacturing sector have told Insider about how they are rising to challenges presented by lockdown and Brexit, and their hopes for 2021/. Following publication of Insider’s SME 300, Ed Salt, managing director at Delaware Dairy, Barry Leahey, managing director at Playdale, CLD Fencing’s global sales director Russell Wells, Nick Dykins, managing director at Slingco, and WFEL director Tom Winney were among the guests assembled by Insider to look at how the North West would emerge from the pandemic. Barry Leahey, from playground equipment maker Playdale, said 2021 will be a “recovery year” with firms emerging stronger.
MILITARY:
COVID Support Force: the MOD’s continued contribution to the coronavirus response
Military personnel are supporting public services across the UK to assist with the response to COVID-19. This page has the latest information on the MOD’s activities – updated: the MOD’s continued contribution to the coronavirus response page as of 11 December 2020.
PROPERTY:
Trafford Centre under new ownership despite Covid pandemic
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) has acquired ownership of the Trafford Centre retail site in Manchester. The deal is through CPP’s wholly-owned subsidiary CPPIB Credit Investments Inc. No price has been revealed, but it is understood to be in the region of £800m, which is less than the £1.3bn valuation quoted in August this year.
Mental Health issue ‘greater than thought’ in agency sector
A survey conducted by charity Agents Together suggests a large majority of industry people would like to see more focus on wellbeing and mental health.
A report to be issued this week, based on responses to a survey of agents and other industry sectors held in the autumn, shows that three In four people admitted to going to work when feeling mentally unwell. Some 90 per cent of respondents would like to see more focus on wellness in the industry – and most shocking, 55 per cent say they do not share their mental health challenges due to fear of judgement and stigma. Sixty two per cent have reported that Covid has negatively impacted their mental health, and 84 per cent would like to be educated on mental health.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): temporary measures to support customers
Property, land registry – How we are delivering our services during the coronavirus outbreak. Our phone service is available from 8am to 5pm.
Rental guarantor service claims to help keep rental sector buoyant
A rental guarantor service claims that it and companies like it have helped keep the UK’s private rental sector buoyant during the pandemic. Housing Hand, which says it is the country’s largest rent guarantor provider, says that by acting as a guarantor for working professionals and students, these services increase the number of renters available to landlords despite widespread financial uncertainties.
UK the top hotspot for overseas resi investment
The UK has ranked highest for future residential real estate investment, in a survey of 500 investors, developers and asset managers with more than $3bn AUM from across Europe, China and the US, suggesting the UK real estate market will remain firmly open for business post-Brexit. The findings from the European Real Estate global survey by international law firm DLA Piper found that, overall, the top five countries for investment in residential assets over the next 12 months are all in Europe, with the UK leading the way (33%), followed by France (28%), Germany (25%), Spain (24%) and Italy (18%).
Surge in buy-to-let in bid to beat stamp duty deadline
Around one in seven residential properties purchased in November were snapped up by buy to let investors, according to Countrywide research.
A report by Countrywide’s up-market brand Hamptons says landlords comprised 15 per cent of all purchases last month, over half of which were in cash. It also predicts that be the end of the year – just two weeks from now – investors will have bought around 134,000 homes in 2020, a slight improvement on last year.
Four key points property investors need to check
Covid-19 hasn’t changed the fundamentals of property investment (or any other form of investment). It has, however, changed some of the details. With that in mind, here’s a quick guide to what property investors should be checking in 2021 (and beyond)?
Can a property be sold to residential buyers?
Is the property in a good area?
Is the property suitable for home working?
Is the property energy efficient?
Rightmove: Market frenzy set to last until spring at least
The portal is forecasting a robust four per cent average house price growth in 2021 across the UK as a whole, after ending 2020 some 6.6 per cent higher. And it says the current stamp duty holiday has undoubtedly added some extra momentum, but buyer demand was already very high even prior to its announcement in July. Rightmove reports that sales remain resilient now, 53 per cent higher than this time a year ago, despite the decreasing likelihood of completion by March 31 if a sale is agreed now.
COVID-19 and renting: guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities
Non-statutory guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities in the private and social rented sectors in the context of Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Sections 2.9 and 2.23 of the Landlord and tenant guidance updated to reflect that the 14-day isolation period is now 10 days.
SPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on the phased return of elite sport
Guidance for elite athletes and coaches on the phased return of elite sport.
TRAVEL:
LoveHolidays to refund over £18 million for cancelled holidays
Following CMA action, LoveHolidays has committed to pay out over £18 million to customers waiting for money back after their holidays were cancelled due to coronavirus.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Test to Release for international travel
Pay for a COVID-19 test to find out if you can reduce your self-isolation period after international travel – link to list of private test providers added.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Immigration (European Economic Area) Regulations 2016 – guidance for applicants
Guidance for applicants for documentation issued under the Immigration (European Economic Area) Regulations 2016 who have been affected by restrictions associated with coronavirus.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): EU Settlement Scheme – guidance for applicants
Guidance for EUSS applicants in or outside the UK who have been affected by restrictions associated with coronavirus.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Turkish applicants for UK visas
Guidance for Turkish ECAA applicants both in and outside of the UK who need to apply for leave and are affected by restrictions associated with coronavirus.
Travel advice: coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for British people travelling overseas during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, if they are legally permitted to travel – new link to the guidance on getting a COVID-19 test to reduce self-isolation
Useful Links:
COVID-19 Winter Plan
The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the end of 2020 and into the start of 2021.
Government extends JRS furlough scheme at 80% for period of lockdown
The government has said the furlough scheme, due to have closed on 31st October, would now be extended until December.
Check if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Check which employees you can put on furlough to use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Calculate how much you can claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Steps to take before calculating your claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Check if you can claim for your employees’ wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
New National Restrictions from 5 November
Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available.
Job Retention Bonus (JRB)
Employers are able to claim a one-off payment of £1,000 for every eligible employee furloughed and claimed for through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), kept continuously employed until at least 31 January 2021 and who meets the other eligibility criteria. Claims can be made between 15 February and 31 March.
Become a Green Homes Grant Supplier II – Trustmark and PAS 2030The new Green Homes Grant will give over 600,000 homeowners in England up to £10,000 to install insulation, heat pumps, draft proofing and more to help households cut energy bills.
Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary COVID-19 local lockdown restrictions imposed by the government.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant extension
The grant is being extended from 1 November 2020. Find out if you’re eligible and how much you can get.
Hospitality venues in England are now legally required to enforce the rule of 6 or face a fine of up to £4,000.
Designated businesses and organisations, including hospitality, close contact services and leisure venues, will also be legally required to log details of customers, visitors and staff for NHS Test and Trace and required to display official NHS QR code posters under law
NHS Test and Trace service in the workplace
Guidance on the NHS Test and Trace service for employers, businesses and workers updated to reflect the new legal requirements for designated venues to collect contact details and display official NHS QR code posters from 24th September
Claim money back through the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme
Find out how to claim the reimbursement for discounts given to diners with the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme. The Eat Out to Help Out Scheme closed on 31 August 2020 – the page updated with removal of registration links.
Kickstart Scheme
The Kickstart Scheme provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
Kickstart Scheme employer resources
If you’ve been offered Kickstart Scheme funding, you can use these resources to show your support for the scheme.
Kickstart Scheme employer contacts
List of regional contacts for employers applying for a grant through the Kickstart Scheme.
Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can’t do
Frequently asked questions on what you can and can’t do during the coronavirus outbreak – guidance updated in line with new regulations coming into force on 4 July
Business Survey:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dcms-coronavirus-impact-business-survey/dcms-business-survey-headline-measures
Apply for the coronavirus Future Fund
The Future Fund will provide UK Government loans to UK-based companies ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, subject to at least equal match funding from private investors.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme set to launch
Employers will be able to make claims through the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme from 26 May.
Government – Guidance on Returning to Work safely
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Government – Setting out of Road Map to recovery – 11th May 2020
Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s 60 page COVID-19 recovery strategy
The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy. The strategy sets out a cautious roadmap to easing existing measures in a safe and measured way, subject to successfully controlling the virus and being able to monitor and react to its spread.
Coronavirus Act 2020: status
A table setting out the status of each measure in the Coronavirus Act 2020.
Government – Financial Support
New 100% government backed loan scheme for small business
Government – Financial Support
CBILS – A guide to whether it may be the best options for a business
Government – Financial Support
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – online claims portal open
Government – Business Support:
Government launches new coronavirus business support finder tool
Government – Business Support Hub:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Government – Financial Support: HMRC has published guidance on how it will work out income and profits for the self-employed or those in a partnership who have lost profits due to coronavirus.
Government – Business Support:
https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19
Government – Financial Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-business-support-grant-funding
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses
Bank of England – Financial Support: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2020/march/the-covid-corporate-financing-facility
Cheshire and Warrington Growth Hub
Gov.uk: Maintaining Educational Provision: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision
UK Lockdown – Further businesses to close and exceptions: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874732/230320_-_Revised_guidance_note_-_finalVF
Health – updates from NHS
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news/
Health – Shielding the most vulnerable https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19
Media and Marketing:
Travel: https://media.northernrailway.co.uk/news/coronavirus-travel-information
Recruitment: – DWP and Universal Credit: http://news.dwp.gov.uk/dwplz/lz.aspx?p1=MQsDU1NjQ5MlM2OTA0OjNCNDJBOEZCRTJDOUJEOTc1ODQ0RTRCRDNDNzk4QUNF-&CC=&p=0
Retail: An update form British Retail Consortium https://brc.org.uk/news/corporate-affairs/coronavirus-latest-retailer-activity/
Resources available from Acas:
Redundancy letter templates
Redundancy process map Acas have also contributed to the development of a new return to work toolkit in partnership with SOM, CIPD, BITC and Mind.
Small businesses received £21.3 billion in COVID-19 support from local authority grants 
Two year extension announced for Covid Recovery Loan scheme 
Research finds Covid-19 has not fundamentally changed the UK labour market