FUND Opens For Businesses Losing Out Under Covid-19 Curbs

BUSINESSES in Inverclyde affected by recent coronavirus restrictions can now apply for a share of a multi-million pound disruption fund.

Organisations which have either been forced to close or suffered a drop in trade because of Covid-19 limitations could be eligible for a one-off grant of between £1,000 and £3,000.

Payments will be distributed by local authorities, including Inverclyde Council, from a £40million Scottish Government fund.

Grants are being offered to support businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and leisure sectors, affected by the 16-day restrictions aimed at tackling a surge in coronavirus cases which came into effect on 9 October and are due to end this Sunday (25 October).

A one-off payment of £2,000 to £3,000 is available from a closure fund for premises which have had to shut altogether, while £1,000 to £1,500 is on offer from a hardship fund for those which remain open but have still been impacted by the temporary measures.

The level of grant is dependent on the rateable value of each business.

Applications are now being accepted until 5pm on Tuesday 3 November and those received after this deadline will not be considered.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, Inverclyde Council leader, said: “I have every sympathy with the businesses which have been affected by these further, temporary restrictions. This awful virus is having a profound impact on health and the economy.

“Businesses need every bit of financial support available to them during these tough times and I urge those which have been and continue to be affected by these latest restrictions to apply for funding through the council.

“These grants will hopefully help organisations in Inverclyde to weather the storm and protect local jobs.”

As well as supporting the likes of pubs and restaurants which have had to close, the fund is also aimed at producers and wholesalers supplying the hospitality trade who have suffered a knock-on effect.

Gyms are also among the businesses which may also be eligible for support because of restrictions placed on the leisure sector.

For full eligibility criteria, to download an application form and to find out how to apply for funding, visit www.inverclyde.gov.uk/covidsupportfund.