Latest UK data:
Positive tests: 1,538,794 have tested positive (+ 11,299 new cases)
Loss of life: *55,838 across all settings (+ 608 in last 24 hours)
Cases in Cheshire East: 8,537 confirmed since start of the pandemic, + 693 in the 7 days to 19th November
*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.
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.
Full list of local COVID alert levels by area
The areas in England listed as local COVID alert level high and local COVID alert level very high.
Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 23 November 2020
Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement at the coronavirus press conference.
UK HEADLINES:
Prime Minister publishes COVID Winter Plan
Prime Minister Boris Johnson today published the government’s COVID Winter Plan. – National restrictions to end on 2 December, with England returning to local tiers:
– Shops, gyms, personal care, and leisure to reopen, whilst collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume;
– Tiers toughened in some areas to safeguard gains, and ensure testing and vaccines can have maximum impact;
– Prime Minister to announce on Thursday which area will be in each tier, based on latest data.
National restrictions will end on 2 December. Across England, this means the ‘stay at home’ order will end and shops, gyms, personal care, and the leisure sector will reopen. Collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume, and people will not be limited to seeing one other person in outdoor public spaces. Instead, the rule of 6 will again apply. Some restrictions will be amended. For example, the hospitality curfew has been modified to last orders at 10pm and closing time at 11pm, allowing customers to depart in a staggered way. In tiers 1 and 2, spectator sport can also resume outside with capacity limits and social distancing, providing consistency with theatres and concert halls. In tier 1 people will be encouraged to minimise travel and work from home where possible. In tier 2, alcohol may only be served in hospitality settings as part of a substantial meal. In tier 3, hospitality will close except for delivery and takeaway, and indoor entertainment venues, such as cinemas, casinos and bowling alleys, must also close.
COVID-19 Winter Plan
The government’s plan for managing COVID-19 through the end of 2020 and into the start of 2021.
Up to three households will be allowed to stay together and form a “Christmas bubble” from 23 to 27 December. Prime Minister Boris Johnson told people to use “personal judgement” on whether to visit elderly relatives. A scientific adviser to the government said the relaxation of rules amounted to “throwing fuel on the Covid fire”.
The measures will see travel restrictions across the four nations, and between tiers and levels, lifted to allow people to visit families in other parts of the UK.
Anyone travelling to or from Northern Ireland may travel on the 22 and 28 December, but otherwise travel to and form bubbles should be done between the 23 and 27.
People will not be able to get together with others from more than two other households, and once a bubble is formed, it must not be changed or be extended further. The guidance says a bubble of three households would be able to stay overnight at each other’s home but would not be able to visit hospitality, theatres or retail settings.
Read more from the BBC
Chancellor Rishi Sunak due to unveil the government’s spending plans for the coming year
The Spending Review will include details on public sector pay, NHS funding and money for the devolved administrations in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Mr Sunak will also set out the extent of the damage done to the UK economy by the coronavirus pandemic. The government’s Covid response has led to huge spending and borrowing rises. The chancellor is expected to begin his statement at around 12:30 GMT following Prime Minister’s Questions.
Read more at the BBC
Non-essential shops to reopen and live business meeting given go-ahead
Boris Johnson confirmed non-essential shops would be able to re-open from next Wednesday along with an end to the stay at home restriction.
Addressing parliament via video link, Johnson said: “For the first time since this wretched virus took hold, we can see a road out of this pandemic.’
He added: “By spring, the concept of a Covid lockdown will be redundant.”
New tiered restrictions will also see the return of live business meetings such as conferences. These will be permitted for up to 1,000 people indoors in Tier 1 and Tier 2 areas across the UK providing social distancing rules are followed.
PM statement on COVID-19 Winter Plan: 23 November 2020
Local restriction tiers: what you need to know
The government will replace the current tiers 2 December with a regionally-differentiated approach, where different tiers of restrictions apply in different parts of the country. These tiers will be strengthened compared to the previous tiers in order to prevent a return to growing infections. The government is committed to ensuring the right levels of intervention in the right places to manage outbreaks, suppress the virus and keep R below 1.
There are 3 tiers for local restrictions:
On Thursday 26 November the government will announce which areas are in which tier. You will be able to use the postcode checker to find out the restrictions in your area or an area you plan to visit. The NHS COVID-19 app will be updated on 2 December.
Tier posters: Medium, High and Very High
A series of posters displaying information about the various tiers of restrictions in England from 2 December 2020.
The coronavirus vaccine developed by the University of Oxford is highly effective at stopping people developing Covid-19 symptoms, a large trial shows.
Interim data suggests 70% protection, but the researchers say the figure may be as high as 90% by tweaking the dose.
The results will be seen as a triumph, but come after Pfizer and Moderna vaccines showed 95% protection. However, the Oxford jab is far cheaper, and is easier to store and get to every corner of the world than the other two. So the vaccine will play a significant role in tackling the pandemic, if it is approved for use by regulators.
Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine: MHRA statement confirming data received
Safety is our watchword! As further news of the vaccine is released, MHRA Chief Executive Dr June Raine said she is pleased to have received further data for the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine candidate: “ It is our job now to rigorously assess these data and the evidence submitted on the vaccine’s safety, quality and effectiveness. As we have received this data through a rolling review, we have already started our analysis and will aim to make a decision in the shortest time possible, without compromising the thoroughness of our review.
Staying mentally well: winter plan 2020 to 2021
The government’s plans to support people’s wellbeing and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic this winter. For some, the pandemic has led to positive changes which have improved their wellbeing, such as greater flexibility in work schedules, or a sense of strong community spirit. However, we know this sense of optimism has not been shared by everyone, with many reporting feelings of worry, anxiety, frustration or loneliness. This government is absolutely committed to supporting everyone’s mental health and wellbeing throughout the winter period and beyond, and to ensuring that the right support is in place. Next year, the NHS will receive around an additional £500 million to address waiting times for mental health services, give more people the mental health support they need, and invest in the NHS workforce.
Cineworld has announced that it expects to survive without lender support if cinemas reopen by May 2021.
Cineworld, headquartered in London, reported today that it has secured $750m in additional liquidity, which it says means that it can survive another six months without cinemas opening. The company has secured a new debt facility of $450m and issue of equity warrants, and has agreed bank covenant waivers until June 2022. The company has said that this will provide it with “financial and operational flexibility” until business returns to normal. However, it added that this assumes a reopening of cinemas “no later” than May 2021 – and that if there is a further delay, it is likely to require lender support.
Homecare workers to be tested weekly for COVID-19
Care workers looking after people in their own homes will be offered weekly coronavirus tests from Monday, the government has announced.
The R number and growth rate in the UK
The R number range for the UK is 1.0-1.1 and the growth rate range is 0% to +2% per day as of 20 November 2020.
Graphic courtesy of BBC
National Restrictions Poster
Graphical poster displaying information about the national restrictions in England.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Council launch single application process to financially support Cheshire East businesses
Cheshire East Council has launched several new grant schemes to support businesses, which are now open to applicants.
Local contact tracing service set to go live
A locally supported Covid-19 contact tracing service is going live this week across Cheshire East to help control the spread of the coronavirus.
Northern leaders have agreed an initial plan for a new railway network that will transform the region’s economy.
Following a Transport for the North meeting, elected mayors, council and business leaders have recommended the Government commits to Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) – a network of new and significantly upgraded rail lines for the North of England. It could create thousands of jobs and includes calls for a new rail link between Liverpool and Manchester, through Warrington town centre, as well as a line from Manchester to Leeds, via Bradford.
BUSINESS & FINANCE:
Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to pay VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020. You can pay now or get ready to opt in to the VAT deferral new payment scheme. New payment scheme will be available in 2021.Guide updated with information on how to opt in to the scheme.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): jobs that qualify for travel exemptions
Jobs that qualify for exemptions from self-isolation or passenger locator form requirements. Specialist technical workers – subsea telecommunications infrastructure added to list.
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.
Consensus statement emphasises importance of COVID-19-secure workplaces
A consensus statement on the best approach to reduce risk for workers, including those of ethnic minority groups, has been issued by PHE, HSE and FOM.
Claim for Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for periods starting 1 November
The scheme is running until the end of March for all parts of the UK. You will still need to submit all final claims for periods up to 31??? ?October on or before?3????0 November. Make sure you have the latest information by joining the live Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme webinar, which includes:
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to calculate what you can claim
- how to make a claim for all periods.
HMRC will continue to update our webinars to reflect the latest information as it becomes available. Register here
HMRC are also running monthly webinars on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme. Get the latest information on:
- who can claim
- who you can claim for
- how to make a claim
- what you may be entitled to, and more.
Register hereYou can ask questions during all our live webinars using the on-screen text box. HMRC webinars are regularly updated to provide the latest government guidance on changes as they develop.
COMMUNITY:
Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family
Meeting friends and family over the Christmas period – forming a Christmas Bubble.
COVID Winter Grant Scheme
Information on COVID Winter Grant Scheme funding to support vulnerable households.
Stopping movement of staff between care settings
We want your views on plans to minimise the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) infections by making residential and nursing care home providers restrict the movement of care staff.
CONSTRUCTION:
Severfield surges through coronavirus
Severfield said that in its first-half to the end of September revenue was up 40% to £186m delivering a pretax profit of £6.6m, down from £8.2m in 2019. Alan Dunsmore, Chief Executive Officer, said that tendering and pipeline activity remained very encouraging despite more competitive pricing and some client investment decisions taking longer than normal. Its UK and Europe order book stands £287m, ahead from (1 June 2020: £271m) helped by new nuclear orders secured by its recently acquired Harry Peers business. He said orders and inquiries remained strong in the industrial and distribution, nuclear, data centre, infrastructure and stadia and leisure sectors.
Ahead of the spending review tomorrow, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, who was speaking to Glenigan’s Content Director, Robert Davis, about capital spending last Friday said “I think you will be happy with the amount of capital investment [the Treasury] are going to be doing next year…we said we want to be ambitious around that”. The Chancellor also confirmed to Glenigan that the Government will be publishing some long-term plans for capital-projects, with the delayed National Infrastructure Strategy being unveiled alongside the spending review.
The 30-year strategy, which was due to be published in March 2020, provides £100bn to improve transport connectivity and work towards the Government’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The strategy is also due to focus on “levelling up” disparities between the North and South, after the Treasury confirmed Sunak would be changing the department’s green book, a set of rules that determines the value of government schemes, which is said to favour London and the South East.
“On both of those, you will be satisfied” said the Chancellor.
CULTURE, MEDIA & SPORT:
COVID-19: suggested principles of safer singing
Outlining the available evidence on virus transmission associated with singing and suggested actions to reduce the risk of transmission while singing.
EDUCATION:
Guidance for schools: coronavirus (COVID-19)
What school leaders, teachers and school staff need to do during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added ‘Help with accessing and buying resources for remote education’ to the remote education section.
Help with accessing and buying resources for remote education
Information for schools and school buying professionals on sourcing educational resources during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Cohort pool testing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Information on pooled testing for universities taking part in the pooled testing pilot – updated with information on travelling when taking part in the testing pilot, and indicated that the guidance now also applies in Scotland.
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 19 November 2020’.
ENVIRONMENT:
EMG: Potential application of air cleaning devices and personal decontamination to manage transmission of COVID-19, 4 November 2020
Paper prepared by the Environmental and Modelling Group (EMG).
HEALTH, CARE & WELLBEING:
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.
Incinerating specified healthcare wastes at a municipal waste incinerator: RPS C23
When you can incinerate coronavirus (COVID-19) infectious waste at a municipal waste incinerator without varying your permit. This RPS has been amended by removing the word ‘infectious’ where appropriate, removing the reference to ‘yellow bagged’, and setting out the waste types correctly.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) weekly insights: latest health indicators in England
This article brings together data about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in England. Exploring how these measures interact with each other can improve understanding of the severity and spread of the pandemic. Prepared by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in collaboration with our research partners at the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC) and Public Health England (PHE).
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey, UK: 20 November 2020
Estimates for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. This survey is being delivered in partnership with University of Oxford, University of Manchester, Public Health England and Wellcome Trust.
NHS Test and Trace: how we test your samples
An overview of the largest diagnostic network in British history, including what happens after you submit your sample and how laboratories process your test – updated to reflect the latest information on the NHS Test and Trace programme, including additional detail on the operational structure of the lab network, and to reflect growth in the number of tests processed weekly.
How tests and testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19) work
The different types of tests and testing kits for COVID-19, and the specifications for manufacturers.
UK Government-supported mass Covid-19 testing begins in Merthyr
UK Military provides logistical support for county-wide programme of testing.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for homecare workers
Sets out how homecare agencies in England can order regular tests for their homecare staff.
National Child Measurement Programme: childhood obesity
Research by University College London shares learning from local authorities that have a downward trend in childhood obesity, including practice examples.
Advice for developers of COVID-19 vaccines
MHRA scientific and regulatory advice for COVID-19 vaccine developers
MHRA guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)
We are producing guidance and information for industry, healthcare professionals and patients covering the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added link to guidance on ‘Advice for developers of COVID-19 vaccines’, in the ‘Vaccines and vaccine safety’ section.
MHRA guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)
We are producing guidance and information for industry, healthcare professionals and patients covering the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – dded ‘Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine: MHRA statement confirming data received’
COVID-19: PHE laboratory assessments of inactivation methods
PHE has undertaken assessments of inactivation methods against SARS-CoV-2 with further evaluations ongoing.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey: characteristics of people testing positive for COVID-19 in England, November 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.
PPE deliveries (England): 16 November to 22 November 2020
Experimental statistics showing the latest number of personal protective equipment (PPE) items distributed for use by health and social care services in England.
JUDICIARY:
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 – updates added for Queen’s Bench Masters Listing and Action Department Information for Court Users and Section 28 press release.
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 20 November 2020.
PROPERTY:
Market boom continues according to strong mortgage search figures
A mortgage technology platform has released figures suggesting the housing market remains strong, with high numbers of searches by buyers for the best loans. Twenty7Tec’s latest figures show the state of the mortgage market after the second week of the latest England lockdown. Weekly mortgage online search volumes are currently at 87.33 per cent of the year’s highest figure, down just 0.5 per cent on the previous week. Specifically, owner occupation mortgage search volumes are at 85.94% of the year’s high, down 1.9 per cent on the week before, while buy to let mortgage search volumes are at 94.18 per cent of the year’s high, up 2.3 per cent on the previous week.
Tougher Corona restrictions: agents to be told how market will work
Agents should know in the next 36 hours how new Coronavirus restrictions will affect how they work. The Prime Minister is announcing tougher Tier restrictions to operate from the end of the England lockdown on December 2. Under the current England-wide lockdown agents have been able to work in branches but without widespread visits from members of the public; sales and house moves have gone ahead, under existing social distancing and safety guidelines.
10 Downing Street has already confirmed ahead of Boris Johnson’s announcement that after December 2 more areas of England are set to be placed into higher tiers than before to keep the virus under control, with specific tier rules strengthened to safeguard progress on reducing the infection R rate achieved during the lockdown.
Investors scramble for property in the face of recession
The majority of UK investors are worried the government’s handling of Covid-19 and Brexit will have a negative impact on the economy, new research from FJP Investment has found. Its survey of more than 1,000 UK-based investors – all of whom have investments and savings in excess of £10,000 – has revealed their thoughts on the UK economy and the country’s position as an investment hub.
It found that over three-fifths (63%) are concerned about the government’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic resulting in a long-term recession, while 41% are worried about the impact Brexit will have on their finances. This figure rises to 53% for those with an investment portfolio valued over £250,000. With Brexit negotiations stalling, over half (53%) are expecting a no deal outcome by December 31 2020.
Agents seeking urgent guidance from Government
Propertymark is in touch with the government to see how the new Tier structure being introduced on December 3 will affect agents. A statement from the organisation overnight said: “Propertymark is in contact with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to understand whether there will be any impact on any aspect of sales or lettings processes.” Estate Agent Today has also sought clarification from the MHCLG following broad brush government details issued yesterday. From December 3 across England there will be Medium, High and Very High tiers as before, although with stricter criteria; regions will not find out which tier they are in until Thursday. The allocation of tiers will be reviewed every two weeks and will depend on each area’s case numbers, the reproduction rate – or R number – and current and projected pressure on NHS facilities .
New corona rules – agents and tradespeople can still visit properties
New and tougher Coronavirus restrictions have been announced in Scotland with decisions on England’s new controls expected to be revealed today or tomorrow. Under the Scottish rules, in which several parts of the country have been moved into more restrictive Level 3 and Level 4 categories, visits by letting agents and landlords can continue. However this is as long as official guidance on business and physical distancing are followed, and providing the person visiting is well and not showing
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers
Walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.
TRAVEL:
Speaking in the House of Lords, Tory peer Lord Callanan said the taskforce was meeting today and would make announcements tomorrow (24 November).
When questioned about specific help for agents and the industry as a whole, Callanan repeatedly referred to existing financial support including furlough schemes. The debate was sparked by Baroness Clark of Kilwinning in response to a question by her on the future of high street travel agents:
“In the summer, nine out of 10 holidays were either cancelled or changed and Abta said in August 90,000 jobs were at risk. That figure increased to 164,000 people by the end of October. Will the government look at a specific strategy for this sector and for sector support?”
Airlines need further £60billion to survive Covid-19
Speaking at the Paris Air Forum on Friday (20 November), de Juniac thanked governments around the world for provision, to date, of around £120 billion in support, Reuters reports. However, he said also stressed that in the coming months, the industry’s additional funding needs would amount to around another £60 billion in aid “otherwise some airlines will not survive”.
De Juniac also offered an update on the financial outlook for the sector, admitting losses for the year could run to £75 billion, up from a previous Iata estimate of £65.5 billion.
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 – updated to include visa extension for healthcare workers whose visa expires between 1 October 2020 and 31 March 2021.
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. Updated – Bonaire / St Eustatius / Saba, Israel, Jerusalem, Namibia, Northern Mariana Islands, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Uruguay and the US Virgin Islands added to exempt list.
Test to Release: England introduces testing strategy for international arrivals
Tests will be at the cost of the traveller to protect the capacity of NHS Test and Trace.
COVID-19 risk assessment methodology for inbound international travel
Methodology for risk assessments that inform decisions on international travel corridors.
Useful Links:
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