COVID-19 Support for Retail, Tourism & Hospitality
Generic information can be found on our other COVID-19 pages. This page details information specific to Retail, Leisure & Hospitality businesses.
24th November 2020
Government published measures to boost the hospitality sector. Restaurants, pubs and cafes will get automatic freedoms to provide takeaway services for another year. Freedoms enabling outdoor markets are also extended, enabling them to plan ahead for the economic recovery.
For more information click here
12th May 2020
Visit Kent have pulled together a summary of the key points specifically affecting Tourism and Hospitality, following the governments publications of its strategic plan to each the lockdown and support the UK in recovery from the virus pandemic.
For more information click here
24th April 2020
the Government has provided guidance for local authorities setting out details of the Small Business Grants Fund (SBGF) and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund (RHLGF), providing clarification of whether grants are subject to tax.
For more information click here
UPDATE 27th March
Further Businesses, Venues and Premises closures
Updated guidance on 26 March 202 on the closure of all retailers that sell non-essential goods and other non-essential premises, as part of further social distancing measures.
UPDATE 20th March
Coronavirus Business Funding and Support for Tourism and Hospitality Businesses
- Support for liquidity amongst large firms, with a major new scheme being launched by the Bank of England to help them bridge COVID-19 disruption to their cash flows through loans
- Confirmation that Government advice to avoid pubs, clubs and theatres etc. is sufficient for businesses to claim on their insurance where they have appropriate business interruption cover for pandemics in place
- Relaxation in planning regulations to allow pubs and restaurants to start providing takeaways without a planning application
- Facebook have also announced a $100million fund to support small businesses.
Cash grants for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses
Grants of £10,000 or £25,000 will be provided to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses. Those operating from smaller premises, with a rateable value under £15,000 will be eligible for a £10,000 grant and those operating from premises with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000 will be eligible for a £25,000 grant.
For any enquiries on eligibility for, or provision of, the reliefs and grants see the link below to the government guidance . https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/business-rates-retail-discount-guidance
UPDATE 19th March
Coronavirus 19 – Business Support for the Retail & Hospitality Sectors in Folkestone & Hythe District
We are now in unprecedented times and the effect of COVID-19 can be felt by all.
In addition to the interventions and support announced by the Government, Folkestone & Hythe District Council is introducing a support programme for small independent businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors across the district. This will be delivered via appropriate methods, including by remote means where necessary. More information can be found on our dedicted page https://folkestone.works/independent-retail-hospitality-support-programme/
