UK DATA
Total UK Cases: 3,164,051 positive tests
Latest UK daily figure: 45,533 new cases
Number in UK hospital: 35,075 (4,240 new admissions)
New deaths across UK: 1,243
Total UK deaths: 83,203
England Cases per 100,000: 629.9 per 100,000
R number in UK: 1.1 – 1.4
Vaccine data:
Total 1st doses given: 2,431,648 up to and including 11 January 2021
Latest weekly figure: 388,677
Latest Cheshire East data:
Total Cheshire East cases: 13,930
New cases in past 7 days: 1,686 to 7 Jan
Total deaths: 550
Cases per 100,000: 438.9 per 100,000
R number in North West: 1.0 – 1.4
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 NEWS & HEADLINES:
BBC: Covid-19: Rule-breakers ‘increasingly likely’ to be fined
Lockdown rule-breakers are more likely to be fined as Covid laws will be enforced “more quickly”, the UK’s most senior police officer has said.
Metropolitan Police commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said her officers have had to break up parties, despite London hospitals struggling to cope with rising patient numbers.
A minister confirmed her pledge that fines were “increasingly likely”.
Kit Malthouse said people have a “duty” to make this lockdown “the last one”.
“We are urging the small minority of people who aren’t taking this seriously to do so now, and [are illustrating] to them that if they don’t they are much more likely to get fined by the police,” Mr Malthouse, the policing minister, told BBC Breakfast.
BRC calls for further business support after “worst year on record” for UK retail
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has called on the government to provide further support to struggling businesses. The BRC has said that the government “must act decisively” to help retail businesses most affected by the COVID-19 restrictions. New figures published today showed that December saw a 65 per cent decrease in retail footfall, as well as a 4.5 per cent like-for-like drop in sales compared with 2019.
Deloitte survey reveals optimism for 2021 among top CFOs
Finance leaders across the UK are optimistic for the a return to economic growth in 2021, according to a survey of Chief Finance Officers (CFOs) by Big 4 accountancy firm, Deloitte. 71% of finance leaders from some of the UK’s largest businesses were optimistic that corporate revenues to rise over the course of 2021.
Government publishes plan for the largest vaccination programme in British history
Government sets out UK COVID-19 vaccines delivery plan for vaccinating tens of millions of people by spring.
More than 2.2 million people in UK receive first dose of COVID-19 vaccine
The number of people who have received the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine between 8 December 2020 to Sunday 10 January 2021 is 2,286,572.
New TV advert urges public to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives
The Government has launched a major new public campaign urging people to act like they have the virus. Everyone in England is being urged to stay at home and “act like you’ve got it” as part of a major advertising campaign encouraging the public to control the spread of the virus and protect the NHS and save lives. Around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 don’t have any symptoms and can pass it on without realising, which is why it’s essential everyone stays at home and remembers Hands, Face, Space. ‘Stay at home, save lives’ will run across TV, radio, out of home advertising and on social media, and will include a new advert fronted by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty. It aired for the first time on ITV at 7:15pm on Friday 8 January 2021.
7 new mass vaccination centres open across the UK
The new sites, which NHS England said were chosen to give a geographical spread covering as many people as possible, are: Birmingham, Bristol, London, Manchester Etiad Tennis centre, Newcastle Stevenage and Surrey. Some 600,000 invites were due to be sent out over the weekend and this coming week to people aged 80 or older who live up to a 45-minute drive from one of the new regional centres. The government is aiming to vaccinate 15 million people in the UK – the over-70s, healthcare workers and those required to shield – by mid-February.
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
Slides, datasets and transcripts from press conferences at 10 Downing Street in response to coronavirus – added 11 January slides.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Invest North announced leaders for post-pandemic recovery conference
As reported by Business Desk, Invest North has today unveiled an exceptional line-up of speakers for its first virtual conference which takes place in March. The event brings together the brightest minds and passionate voices of the North to set the agenda for what happens next. With lockdown restrictions expected to remain in place until March, the large-scale event is perfectly timed to examine how the North can move forward and accelerate its post-Covid recovery.
Cheshire East residents begin receiving Covid-19 vaccine
Residents in Cheshire East have started to receive the Oxford Astra-Zeneca Covid-19 vaccination as GP-led services rolled out in ten locations last week. Mayor of Cheshire East, 81-year old Cllr Barry Burkhill received his jab in Wilmslow this weekend and urged others to ensure they took up the offer. “It only takes a few minutes and is almost painless,” he said.
BUSINESS & FINANCE:
Claims under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) for periods in December must be made by 11??.59pm?? this?? Thursday,14?? January?? 2021.
Make sure you have the latest information by joining the live Coronavirus Job Retention Schemewebinar – Register here – which includes:
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to calculate what you can claim
- how to make a claim.
HMRC are running monthly webinars on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme.
Get the latest information – Register here – on:
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to make a claim
- what you may be entitled to, and more.
Summary of existing economic support
The government has spent £280 billion this year on an unprecedented package of economic support to protect people’s jobs and livelihoods, while supporting businesses and public services across the UK.
Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Find out how apprenticeships will continue during the coronavirus (COVD-19) outbreak – added guidance on remote provision following the new national restrictions and end-point assessment. Updated guidance on ‘Training and assessment in the workplace and educational settings’
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for pregnant employees
Advice for pregnant employees on risk assessments in the workplace and occupational health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Coronavirus: driver and rider trainer guidance
How driving instructors and motorcycle trainers should work safely during coronavirus (COVID-19), business support, and restrictions on driving lessons. Guidance has been reviewed and updated. Because of coronavirus (COVID-19), you can only supervise members of your household or support bubble as part of travel for work, education or other essential journeys. This applies in England, Scotland and Wales.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from self-isolation or passenger locator form requirements.
All arrivals from Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe must self-isolate.
Coronavirus: MOT centre and tester guidance
Guidance for MOT managers and testers on providing MOT tests during coronavirus (COVID-19), including staying open and working safely – updated to make it clear that MOT centres can stay open in all areas of Great Britain, including during the national lockdown in England, the temporary lockdown in Scotland, and all of Wales in alert level 4 (lockdown).
COMMUNITY:
Community testing
Community asymptomatic testing helps identify and isolate individuals who have coronavirus (COVID-19) but do not have symptoms. Following national lockdown restrictions from 6 January 2021, we are expanding the eligibility of community-led testing to all local authorities across England. The document ‘Community Testing: a guide for local delivery’ has been updated to reflect this offer. ‘Community Testing: an explainer’ has also been removed.
A look at volunteering during the response to COVID-19
Volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic: some statistics from the Community Life COVID-19 Re-contact Survey
COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship and special religious services and gatherings during the pandemic
Guidance to provide advice on how places of worship can open, for limited permitted activities, in a manner that is safe and in line with national lockdown restrictions. Guidance on Singing, chanting and the use of musical instruments has been updated.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency accommodation survey data: November 2020
New management information about the support for rough sleepers and those at risk of rough sleeping during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Extra covid protections for rough sleepers and renters??
Extra support to house rough sleepers and ban on bailiff enforced evictions extended.
COVID-19 vaccination: why you are being asked to wait
Information about COVID-19 eligibility and vaccine supplies.
Enabling safe and effective volunteering during coronavirus (COVID-19)
This guidance aims to help organisations and groups understand how to safely and effectively involve volunteers during the pandemic.
List of private providers of coronavirus testing
Information about approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19).
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).
Coronavirus: How to help safely
Across the UK people are playing their part and providing essential support to their friends and family who are in isolation.
COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship and special religious services and gatherings during the pandemic
Guidance to provide advice on how places of worship can open, for limited permitted activities, in a manner that is safe and in line with national lockdown restrictions – amendments to reflect the revised national lockdown regulations which came into force on 6 January 2021.
COVID-19: provision of night shelters
Operating principles for commissioners and providers of night shelters for people experiencing rough sleeping – amended to reflect latest national guidance including changing guidance on the isolation period for contacts of confirmed cases from 14 days to 10 in line with recent guidance changes (sections 3.1 and 3.5).
CONSTRUCTION:
Symptom-free construction workers to get Covid tests
Construction is among the industries to be targeted with regular rapid testing for workers without coronavirus symptoms. The government is expanding its community testing scheme across the whole country. And local authorities “will be encouraged to target testing to people who cannot work from home during lockdown.” Construction workers will be offered rapid lateral flow tests which return results within 30 minutes. Employers are also being encouraged to participate in large-scale testing programmes.
“Vital construction continues” during latest lockdown
New business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has written an open letter to construction praising the work being carried out by the industry. It was one of Kwarteng’s first moves after being appointed in his new role. The letter states: “As the new Business Secretary, I would like to take this opportunity to restate the Government position, which is that firms and tradespeople in the construction sector and its supply chain, including merchants, suppliers and product manufacturers, should continue to operate during this national lockdown.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): letters to the construction sector, November 2020 to January 2021
Letters from the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to those working in the construction sector and its supply chain.
“As the new Business Secretary, I would like to take this opportunity to restate the Government position, which is that firms and tradespeople in the construction sector and its supply chain, including merchants, suppliers and product manufacturers, should continue to operate during this national lockdown. I would also like to make it clear that where it is essential to travel or to stay in accommodation, whether to get to your work or for the purposes of carrying out your work, those in the industry are able to do so.”
EDUCATION:
Actions for FE colleges and providers during the coronavirus outbreak
Find out what you’ll need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak to maintain provision – updated the monitoring attendance section to reflect that colleges should now resume completing the educational settings status form.
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 2020 to 4 January 2021.’
Providing remote education information to parents: template
An optional template to support schools when publishing information about their remote education provision on their websites during the spring term – template updated to reflect revised guidance for restricting attendance during the national lockdown in schools.
Critical workers and vulnerable children who can access schools or educational settings
List of critical workers (key workers) and vulnerable children and young people who can access full-time education provision in the case of future restrictions on education during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – updated ‘Critical workers’ section to clarify that parents and carers who are critical workers should keep their children at home if they can.
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges
Information for parents and carers about going back to schools, nurseries and colleges in January 2021 – updated to reflect the new national restrictions that were introduced on 5 January 2021.
Providing school meals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Guidance for schools and local authorities on school meals arrangements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – updated the guidance to include information on the support available to schools during the national lockdown.
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.
Protective measures for holiday or after-school clubs and other out-of-school settings for children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Updated information on who should attend out-of-school settings in line with new national lockdown restrictions, group sizes with information on staff:bubble ratios, educational visits and trips in line with new national lockdown restrictions, staff who are clinically extremely vulnerable to reflect that shielding has been introduced nationally, and music, dance and drama provision to reflect that live performances should not take place.
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending out-of-school settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Guidance for parents and carers of children attending community activities, holiday or after-school clubs, tuition and other out-of-school settings – updated ‘Who should attend after-school clubs and out-of-school settings’, ‘Children with health concerns’ and ‘Live performances’ sections to reflect national lockdown guidance.
Ofsted publishes short guide to what works well in remote education
Ofsted has published some advice to help school and college leaders and teachers develop their remote education offer.
What’s working well in remote education
Daniel Muijs, Ofsted’s Deputy Director, Research and Evaluation, shares some remote learning tips, based on research and visits to schools and colleges.
Ofsted: coronavirus (COVID-19) rolling update
Ofsted guidance and information relating to coronavirus (COVID-19) for schools, early years, children’s social care and further education and skills providers – included details on monitoring visits, remote learning and our work with social care and registered early years provision.
How to complete the educational setting status form
This data will help the government monitor the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on settings, focus support more effectively and keep children safe – updated the preview of questions for schools and FE settings to reflect the latest changes in the education settings status form.
HEALTH, CARE & WELL-BEING:
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.
Visiting arrangements in care homes
Sets out how care homes can support families and visitors to visit residents from 2 December – guidance updated in line with the national restrictions introduced on 6 January. Deleted 2 attachments summarising the guidance.
Arrangements for visiting out of the care home
Sets out how care homes can support residents of working age on visits outside of the care home – guidance updated in line with the national restrictions introduced on 6 January.
UK COVID-19 vaccines delivery plan
How the UK government was able to build up a supply of vaccines and how it is planning to deploy them.
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 from tiers to national lockdown and to update the definition of a close contact. Designated venues in certain sectors must have a system in place to request and record contact details of their customers, visitors and staff to help break the chains of transmission of coronavirus – updated to reflect the change from local restriction tiers to a national lockdown.
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme – added COVID-19: vaccine surveillance strategy and updated COVID-19 vaccination training slide set.
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 reflect that we collect data on your NHS login account identifier if you access our services using your NHS login details.
PPE portal: how to order COVID-19 personal protective equipment (PPE)
Eligible health and social care providers can order PPE through the portal to meet the increased need that has arisen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic – updated order limits for domiciliary care providers, residential care homes and children’s residential special schools to include FFP masks and gowns. For domiciliary care providers and residential care homes, these items are available to providers that carry out aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs).
COVID-19: vaccine surveillance strategy
Information on the COVID-19 vaccine surveillance strategy in England.
A vaccine delivery plan for everyone
Minister for COVID Vaccine Deployment Nadhim Zahawi spoke to the House of Commons about the UK COVID-19 vaccines delivery plan.
Vitamin D supplements: how to take them safely
Guidance for at-risk groups offered free vitamin D supplements by the government this winter – updated page details. To opt-in you need to register your details on the NHS website by 21 February 2021.
Analysis of geographic concentrations of COVID-19 mortality over time, England and Wales: deaths occurring between 22 February and 28 August 2020
Investigating the geographic varability in deaths involving COVID-19 between 22 February and 28 August 2020, and how the distribution altered during that period.
COVID-19 vaccination: information for healthcare practitioners
Guidance for healthcare practitioners about the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme.
COVID-19 vaccination: a guide for social care staff
Information for frontline social care workers on COVID-19 vaccination.
Regulatory approval of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna – added a note on the ingredients of the vaccine, signposting to where in the documents more information can be found.
Moderna COVID-19 vaccine authorised by UK medicines regulator
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has authorised the Moderna vaccine after an extensive analysis of the vaccine’s safety, quality and effectiveness.
Scientific evidence supporting the government response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Evidence considered by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) – added 12 new papers under May, October, November and December.
Regulatory approval of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
Information for healthcare professionals and the public about the COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
COVID-19 vaccination: easy-read resources
Easy-read guides providing information on coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccination.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): support for care homes
Sets out the support package to keep care homes safe during the coronavirus pandemic – updated ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): care home support package’ to reflect the extension of free PPE until the end of June 2021.
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 – updated a definition of close contact: being within 2 metres of a positive case for more than 15 minutes (the time is now cumulative).
COVID-19 vaccination programme
Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme – added National protocol for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1-S [recombinant]).
Assessment and procurement of coronavirus (COVID-19) tests
How the government assesses offers of COVID-19 tests from developers for procurement and use in the UK – updated ‘National technical validation process for manufacturers of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) tests’ to clarify the procurement process and to reflect the number of technologies currently in the TVG pipeline.
HOSPITALITY:
Further Pubs Code Declaration put in place to protect certain Pubs Code rights
The PCA has approved a Declaration which pauses and preserves key Code rights during this latest period of restrictions.
Pubs Code Declaration January 2021 summary
A summary of what the declaration means in practice to tenants.
JUDICIARY:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): courts and tribunals planning and preparation
This page provides advice and guidance for all court and tribunal users during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and will be updated when new advice is available.
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.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): courts and tribunals planning and preparation
This page provides advice and guidance for all court and tribunal users during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and will be updated when new advice is available.
Guidance updated to confirm that people doing jury service are considered to be critical workers and reconfirm when to not attend court due.
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. Hull university added as a new Nightingale court venue.
LOCAL AUTHORITIES:
Procurement Policy Note 02/20: supplier relief due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
This Procurement Policy Note (PPN) sets out information and guidance for public bodies on payment of their suppliers to ensure service continuity during and after the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. When reviewing this PPN, please refer to PPN 04/20: Recovery and Transition from COVID-19 (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/procurement-policy-note-0420-recovery-and-transition-from-covid-19) which updates and builds on the provisions contained in PPN 02/20.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): emergency funding for local government in 2020 to 2021 and additional support in 2021 to 2022
Allocations of additional funding to local authorities in financial year 2020 to 2021 and additional support for local government in financial year 2021 to 2022. Local council tax support grant: indicative allocations 2021-22 have been provided rounded to a greater degree of accuracy.
MANUFACTURING:
Jaguar Land Rover’s sales end 2020 on the rise
Sales at Jaguar Land Rover rose for the second quarter in succession at the end of 2020, new figures have confirmed. However, the total is almost 10 per cent down on the same period in 2019. Retail sales for the quarter ending 31 December 2020 totaled 128,469 vehicles, 13.1 per cent higher than the 113,569 vehicles sold in the preceding period, but down 9 per cent on the same period last year. China sales were “particularly encouraging”, up 20.2 per cent on the prior quarter and 19.1 per cent year-on-year. Retail sales were also up 31.7 per cent in North America, 26.6 per cent overseas and 20.5 per cent in Europe on the prior quarter
Coronavirus (COVID-19): letters to the manufacturing sector, November 2020 to January 2021
Letters from the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to those in the manufacturing industry and its supply chain.
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.
PROPERTY:
Rent discount announced by major student accommodation provider
Unite Students, one of the UK’s leading student accommodation providers, is giving tenants a rent reduction. Students will be able to apply for a discount of 50 per cent of their rent for a total of four weeks and, in addition, will be given a four-week complimentary extension of their tenancy agreement at the end of the academic year to extend their stay into the summer. The rental discount and tenancy extension will be available to all students checked-in but not living in their accommodation between January 18 and February 14. The government’s latest guidance recommends that most students start their second term online until at least mid-February.
HMRC name and shame agencies breaching anti-money laundering process
Estate agencies have been named by HM Revenue & Customs for breaching anti-money laundering regulations. The list of those breaching the rules include Landmark Sales & Lettings Limited in Reading, which is said to have failed to conduct due diligence and timing of verification. The agency was given a £5,250 fine. And Robert Holmes, an agency in Wimbledon, south west London, was fined £6,591 for “failures in having the correct policies, controls and procedures; internal controls; conducting due diligence and timing of verification” according to the HMRC.
Price growth slows as supply and demand start to fall into line
The average UK house price is now a record £253,374 according to the Halifax – but the rate of growth is slowing. The latest index shows house prices at the end of December were 6.0 per cent higher than in the same month a year earlier. But the month-on-month price increase of just 0.2 per cent was significantly down from the 1.0 rise seen in November, and echoes what agents have seen on the ground according to former RICS residential faculty head Jeremy Leaf: “The pace of house price rises started to slow in December, which is exactly what we found in our offices, as home movers were deterred by further lockdown restrictions and seasonal distractions” he says.
Agents back new Mediation scheme between landlords and tenants
Propertymark has thrown its weight behind an idea from Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick to create a mediation service to arbitrate in disputes between tenants and landlords. The concept of mediation – to be tested out in a pilot project next month – came up in the government announcement of an extension of the bailiff-enforced eviction ban. Details are light at the moment but a statement from Jenrick’s Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government says: “A new mediation pilot will further support landlords and renters who face court procedures and potential eviction from next month.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Energy Performance Certificates
Advice on meeting the regulatory requirement to secure a valid Energy Performance Certificate on marketing a property during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – updated to reflect 4 January announcement of national lockdown for all England.
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) – guidance updated to reflect 4 January announcement of national lockdown for England.
Understanding the possession action process: guidance for landlords and tenants
Guidance for landlords and tenants in the private and social rented sectors to explain the possession action process in the county courts in England and Wales.
Updated to reflect the introduction of national lockdown measures and the extension of measures to prevent the enforcement of evictions in England and Wales, and to provide information about how these operate.
RETAIL:
Jaeger brand reportedly acquired by M&S
M&S High street giant Marks & Spencer has reportedly bought the Jaeger fashion brand out of administration from Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group. The deal is expected to be completed later this month, reports Sky News. No figures have been released, but the PA news agency claims the purchase.
JD Sports raises profit expectations after strong festive trading
Bury-based sportswear and athleisure retailer JD Sports Fashion has increased profit forecasts following a period of strong Christmas and second half trading. In a trading update today it said it expects pre-tax profits for the year to January 2, will increase from the current market expectation of around £295m to at least £400m. This is despite further forced temporary store closures in many of the group’s global territories due to the coronavirus pandemic.
TRANSPORT:
Haulier advice site locations
Find sites where drivers and crew of HGVs, LGVs and vans can get free COVID-19 tests and border readiness checks before transporting goods to the EU.
TRAVEL:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): how to self-isolate when you travel to England
When you arrive in England, you must travel directly to the place you are staying and not leave until 10 days have passed since you were last in a non-exempt country or territory – updated guidance to reflect new rules for those who have travelled through Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Eswatini, Zambia, Malawi, Lesotho, Mozambique, Angola, Mauritius and Seychelles. Also updated to reflect where the guidance now applies to England and not the UK.
International travel update, 11 January 2021
From 4am on 15 January 2021, pre-departure testing will be required for all inbound passengers to England.
United Arab Emirates removed from travel corridor list
People returning to the UK from the UAE will need to self-isolate for 10 days, as the country has been removed from the travel corridor.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for UK visa applicants and temporary UK residents
This is advice for visa customers and applicants in the UK, visa customers outside of the UK and British nationals overseas who need to apply for a passport affected by travel restrictions associated with coronavirus – added information for those outside the UK whose leave has expired before they are able to return to the UK and updated information referring to the free replacement of expired vignettes.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): immigration and borders
Guidance for staff on the Covid Visa Concession Scheme (CVCS) published.
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.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel corridors
List of countries, territories and regions from where you can travel to England and may not have to self-isolate. Botswana, Israel (and Jerusalem), Mauritius and Seychelles removed from the exempt list at 4am Saturday 9 January.
Living in Iceland
Official information for UK nationals living in or moving to Iceland, including guidance on residency, passports and driving.
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