Support from government for businesses affected by COVID-19

Coronavirus (COVID-19) support available to businesses from the Government

• GOV.UK - Reducing the spread of respiratory infections including COVID-19 in the workplace

More information is available at GOV.UK - Coronavirus (Covid-19).

Business Support Helpline Number: 0800 998 1098 (to find out about call charges visit GOV.UK - charges and numbers)

The GOV.UK - Government Business Support helpline provides free, impartial business support and signposting services to businesses in England.

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme 

Claims for the fifth SEISS grant have now closed. The last date for making a claim was 30 September 2021. You can check how much you were paid for SEISS and how to repay an overpaid grant at GOV.UK - Self Employment Income Support Scheme.

Recovery Loan Scheme

The Recovery Loan Scheme, which originally launched in April 2021 to help businesses recovering from the pandemic, has been extended to 2024.

The maximum loan size remains at up to £2m, and the principle behind the extended scheme remains unchanged: the government will underwrite 70% of lender liabilities, at the individual borrower level, in return for a lender fee. Lenders must ensure that the benefits of the government guarantee are passed through to businesses.

For details of the scheme and lenders please visit British Business Bank - Recovery Loan Scheme.

Paying VAT

The VAT deferral new payment scheme has now closed.

For details on how to pay VAT and advice see GOV.UK - VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

The FSB advice and guidance

The National Federation of Self Employed and Small Businesses Limited (FSB) has advice and guidance on recovery and growth.

Boost Business Lancashire

Boost Business Lancashire is a funded Growth Support Service to help you navigate the private and public sector business support landscape to find the right support for you.