SWLEP annual conference and expo, scams and more

View this email in your browser (https://mailchi.mp/news.wiltshire.gov.uk/latest-news-and-advice-on-covid-549240?e=fdaa531b3b)
Business news – Coronavirus update from Wiltshire Council.
24 September 2021
This newsletter provides updates on help and advice available locally for businesses.

Read back issues of this business newsletter (https://us5.campaign-archive.com/home/?u=2883905f726c9fc694bef8b9e&id=3850daa318)
Visit our COVID-19 page for our latest updates (http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19)
The Swindon and Wiltshire Annual Conference and Expo – Engage, Evolve, Go!

The Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) is  holding its annual Conference and Expo on 7 October.

This digital event will deliver an exciting programme celebrating the success, tenacity and ambition of our local business community. The interactive Conference and Expo will showcase successful SMEs from our region, consider how our business landscape is changing and enable attendees to learn and gain new ideas. In addition, there will be plenty of opportunity to mix and mingle with other attendees as well as investigate what our region has to offer within the Expo area, highlighting the best of Swindon and Wiltshire.

Along with numerous informative workshops delivered by local experts, there will be plenary sessions led by international and award-winning speakers, covering topics including innovation, future strategy, purpose, tenacity and strength, and the change and performance shifts needed to excel in business.
Register to join the event (https://growthhub.swlep.co.uk/events/allevents/2021/10/07/company-events/swindon-and-wiltshire-local-enterprise-partnership-annual-conference-2021-engage-evolve-go! )

** Scammers claiming to be from Wiltshire Council target local restaurant
————————————————————
We’ve received a report from a restaurant in Marlborough, that was telephoned by an individual falsely purporting to be from Wiltshire Council’s Public Protection Service.  When the caller was asked for their contact details they became aggressive, the business owner saw through the scam and no personal information was disclosed.  The caller had disguised their phone number so it appeared they were calling from a legitimate source – a process known as ‘number spoofing’.

Never give out your personal information in response to an incoming call or rely upon the Caller ID as the sole means of identification, particularly if the caller asks you to carry out an action which might have financial consequences.  If someone rings you asking for personal information, don’t provide it. Instead, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, in the phone book, or on the organisation’s website to check whether the call was genuine. Wait at least five minutes before making the call – this ensures the line has cleared and you’re not still speaking to the fraudster or an accomplice.

If you receive a call from Wiltshire Council Public Protection and wish to verify our officer’s details you can do so by calling 0300 4560100 or emailing publicprotectionwest@wiltshire.gov.uk (mailto:publicprotectionwest@wiltshire.gov.uk) .

Advice on how to spot and avoid scams, including those targeting businesses, is available from www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk. If you wish to complain about what you suspect is a scam, or want further information, you can contact Action Fraud on 0300 1232040.
Advice on how to spot and avoid scams (http://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk)
Interested in becoming a mentor?

Are you an SME leader? Do you have experience of business growth, implementing change and innovation? Have you grown and led successful teams?

If you answered yes to any of the above, we want you! You could be the person we at UWE Bristol are looking for to become a Mentor as part of the Government / CABS Help to Grow: Leadership Programme delivered by UWE. You will receive training, digital credentials and payment from UWE Bristol as part of this Mentorship programme at the same time as contributing to supporting economic growth.

If you are interested and have 10 hours to give as a Mentor over a three-month period, please get in touch with lynda.williams@uwe.ac.uk (mailto:lynda.williams@uwe.ac.uk) .
More information on the Help to Grow programme (https://helptogrow.campaign.gov.uk/)
The Journey to Net Zero – join a virtual conference

With COP26 climate talks happening in the UK later this year, join the FSB on Tuesday 2 November 2021 for a free online conference designed just for small business owners.

The conference will look at the significant role your business plays in the transition to Net Zero, why urgent action is needed to adapt and how you can get started your journey.

You’ll hear from leading expert names in Government, regulation and policy making, as well as other small businesses who have taken steps towards Net Zero and seen real benefits to their businesses. The full agenda and line up will be revealed in September.
Find out more and book your place (https://www.fsb.org.uk/event-calendar/fsb-small-business-virtual-conference-the-journey-to-net-zero.html)

** Government has published its COVID-19 Autumn and Winter Plan
————————————————————
The Government has published its autumn and winter COVID-19 response plan and we are asking you to continue to do what you can to protect one another and local health services at this challenging time.

Within the plan, the Government states that the country is learning to live with COVID-19, and the main line of defence is now vaccination rather than lockdown.
The Government’s plan is to prepare the country for future challenges, while ensuring the NHS does not come under unsustainable pressure. It wants to achieve this by:
* Building defences through pharmaceutical interventions: vaccines, antivirals and disease modifying therapeutics.
* Identifying and isolating positive cases to limit transmission: Test, Trace and Isolate.
* Supporting the NHS and social care: managing pressures and recovering services.
* Advising people on how to protect themselves and others: clear guidance and communications.
* Pursuing an international approach: helping to vaccinate the world and managing risks at the border.

View the Government’s Autumn and Winter Plan 2021 (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-response-autumn-and-winter-plan-2021)
View the latest guidance on Coronavirus (https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus#sw)
Book your COVID-19 vaccine (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/#sw)

JobHelp website launched to help people find employment

In order to aid those who are looking for their next job opportunity, the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) has launched their new JobHelp website (https://jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/?utm_source=GCS_Local&utm_medium=SocialSouthWest&utm_term=JobHelp_Launch&utm_content=WorkCoaches&utm_campaign=JobHelp_21) . The site contains training, support, and advice, including expert CV guidance.
View the JobHelp website (https://jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/?utm_source=GCS_Local&utm_medium=SocialSouthWest&utm_term=JobHelp_Launch&utm_content=WorkCoaches&utm_campaign=JobHelp_21)

DCMS London Tech Week 2021

This week marks London Tech Week (https://londontechweek.com/) (LTW), an annual week-long event that celebrates the UK’s amazing tech sector.

Wherever you are on the scaling journey, there are a wealth of UK government resources and services that can help you grow your digital business faster and more efficiently.
View the resources for tech scaleups and founders (https://technation.io/resources/government-resources/#sw)
Useful links

We are providing regular updates on the Coronavirus business support page (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-coronavirus) on our website.
You can also follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wiltscouncil) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WiltshireCouncil/) .
For central government updates follow:
* GOV.UK support for business (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19)
* Public Health England (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england)
* NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/)

You can now apply for a Discretionary Restart Grant if your business has not previously received an Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) or Restart Grant funding.

This new grant scheme is targeted at non-essential retailers, and a range of businesses providing in-person services at venues for hospitality, personal care, leisure, gyms and sports sectors, and visitor accommodation.

Before making an application you must read the guidance factsheet and the FAQs, available on our website (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19-grants) , to check your business is eligible. Your application will be rejected if you have already received a discretionary payment for Restart or a business rates-based Restart Grant.

If you have previously received an ARG but have not received a Discretionary Restart payment, please read the Guidance factsheet and the FAQs to check if your business is eligible.
Find out more and how to apply for a grant (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19-grants)
Business Banking Resolution Service

The Business Banking Resolution Service helps SMEs find solutions to unresolved complaints against their bank, providing free, personalised support from highly skilled and experienced dispute resolution specialists. Find out if you could use the service: www.thebbrs.org.register/ (https://thebbrs.org/register/) .

Businesses that meet these broad criteria may be able to apply:
* You have an unresolved business banking complaint against one of these banks or their subsidiaries:
+ Barclays Bank PLC and Barclays Bank UK PLC
+ Danske Bank
+ HSBC UK Bank plc
+ Lloyds Banking Group (Lloyds Bank plc and Bank of Scotland plc)
+ NatWest Group (including The Royal Bank of Scotland Plc, National Westminster Bank plc, Coutts & Company and Ulster Bank Limited (Northern Ireland))
+ Santander UK plc
+ Virgin Money (including Clydesdale Bank PLC and Yorkshire Bank)
* You made a formal complaint to your bank from December 2001 onwards, and have not had (or been able to have) an independent review, nor agreed a settlement, or gone to court
* At the time of the complaint, you had a turnover of:
+ 2001 to 2009: between £1 million and £6.5 million
+ 2009 to 2019: between £2 million and £6.5 million
+ 2019 onwards: between £6.5 million and £10 million

Find out more and register for support (https://thebbrs.org/register/)
Ventilation and air conditioning during the COVID-19 pandemic

Good ventilation can ensure fresh air flows through your workplace and takes COVID-19 particles away with it, helping to reduce the risk of aerosol transmission.

The law says employers must make sure there’s an adequate supply of fresh air (ventilation) in enclosed areas of the workplace. This has not changed during the pandemic.

You can do this by using:
* natural ventilation (https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/equipment-and-machinery/air-conditioning-and-ventilation/improve-natural-ventilation.htm)  – fresh air comes in through open windows, doors or air vents. This is also known as ‘passive airflow’, or
* mechanical ventilation (https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/equipment-and-machinery/air-conditioning-and-ventilation/improve-mechanical-ventilation.htm)  – fans and ducts bring in fresh air from outside

For a full guide and video on how to ensure adequate ventilation and improve existing systems, visit the HSE website (https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/equipment-and-machinery/air-conditioning-and-ventilation/index.htm) .

View guidance on ventilation in your workplace (https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/equipment-and-machinery/air-conditioning-and-ventilation/index.htm)

** Bus services – help us plan the route forward
————————————————————

We need your help to shape the future of local bus transport, as part of an ambitious government strategy to improve and transform services across the country.

Around £3bn has been set aside by the Government to make improvements throughout England, and we’re looking at how you, our residents and bus users of Wiltshire, can benefit from this.

The survey is open until 23 August.

Thank you for taking the time to give us your views.
Take the survey now and have your say (https://surveys.wiltshire.gov.uk/snapwebhost/s.asp?k=162679536235)

Encouraging vaccination uptake in your workplace and for self-employed individuals

Public Health England has shared factsheets, posters and resources to help encourage uptake of the vaccine in workplaces and for self-employed people.

Please help share these messages or use the resources to answer queries in your workplace and direct people to reliable sources of information.

For the workplace toolkit, including an employer briefing sheet, posters and Q&A document, visit: https://coronavirusresources.phe.gov.uk/covid-19-vaccine/resources/employer-toolkit/

For a factsheet if you are self-employed, visit: https://coronavirusresources.phe.gov.uk/covid-19-vaccine/resources/vaccine-self-employed-fact-sheet/
NHS information on vaccinations and how to book (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/)
Useful links

We are providing regular updates on the Coronavirus business support page (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-coronavirus) on our website.
You can also follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wiltscouncil) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WiltshireCouncil/) .
For central government updates follow:
* GOV.UK support for business (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19)
* Public Health England (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england)
* NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/)

Sign up to receive this Business newsletter direct to your inbox (https://mailchi.mp/fa3d04e4d1a7/update)

Self-isolation exemption guidance | Free training opportunities

View this email in your browser (https://mailchi.mp/news.wiltshire.gov.uk/latest-news-and-advice-on-covid-548216?e=fdaa531b3b)
Business news – Coronavirus update from Wiltshire Council.
30 July 2021
This newsletter provides updates on help and advice available locally for businesses.

Read back issues of this business newsletter (https://us5.campaign-archive.com/home/?u=2883905f726c9fc694bef8b9e&id=3850daa318)
Visit our COVID-19 page for our latest updates (http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19)
Workers who may be exempt from self-isolation

Self-isolation remains an essential tool in our national efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus. In the small number of situations where the self-isolation of close contacts would result in serious disruption to critical services, a limited number of named workers may be able to leave self-isolation under specific controls for the purpose of undertaking critical work only.

This policy only applies to you if your business or employer has received a letter from a government department on which your name is listed. In this event you will be able to leave self-isolation to undertake critical work. In all other cases, you should continue to self-isolate as now. This process is only intended to run until 16 August 2021, when fully vaccinated close contacts will be exempt from self-isolation.

If you have not heard from central government and feel that your workplace should be considered on this list, you can contact the relevant government department as listed under the ‘Who to contact’ heading within the ‘Critical Services’ section at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-workplace-guidance#critical-services
View the NHS Test and Trace workplace guidance (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-workplace-guidance#critical-services)
Business climate hub

Businesses of all sizes around the UK are committing to do their bit to cut carbon emissions and protect the planet.

The UK government has partnered with business owners and respected climate groups to help you join them today.

No matter how small your business or what industry you’re in, your commitment could make a real difference – to the planet, to your customers and to your running costs! Even the smallest businesses produce carbon emissions – it could be through your building, your vehicles or your supply chain. We’re asking you to take the first step on your journey, by committing to cutting those carbon emissions in half by 2030 and to reach ‘net zero’ by 2050. Net zero means that you are putting no more carbon into the atmosphere than you are taking out of it.
Find out more and how to join the commitment (https://businessclimatehub.org/uk/)
Get your business in shape for growth

The following programmes are delivered by SETsquared (https://www.setsquared.co.uk/)  and funded by the ERDF, so are offered free of charge to Swindon and Wiltshire business founders and teams.

Innovation Workout for established businesses
Upcoming dates:
* 20 and 21 September, online
* 15 and 16 November, online

Find out more and register (https://bcn.to/x2V)

Fast paced and dynamic, this workout will help you identify new areas for growth and innovation. It will give you the opportunity to consider different financial models, develop new and existing products as well as identify new revenue streams. The outcome will be a developed business model with a greater potential for investment and growth.

Entrepreneurs Workout for early-stage, start-up companies
Upcoming dates:
* 4, 5 and 8 October (half days, online)

Find out more and register (https://bcn.to/x2W)

Lay strong foundations for a successful business, with this fast-paced and interactive Workout. It will help you develop all aspects of your business including your business model, value proposition, customer segmentation, channels for winning customers and revenue model. It culminates in the opportunity to pitch your business model to a panel of experts and speed mentoring giving you lots of valuable feedback on your business.

** Fully-funded Excel training
————————————————————

Two fully-funded spreadsheet courses are on offer in Swindon and Wiltshire for eligible SMEs and individuals, as part of the Skills Support for the Workforce programme delivered by Serco’s expert provider, Skills Ladder. There are two levels and both courses are delivered online.

There are two dates for each course:
Introduction to Spreadsheets – aimed at people with little or no experience of using Microsoft Excel – a good grounding of the basics.
* 11 August – Register (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/introduction-to-spreadsheets-using-excel-course-tickets-147140165195)
* 21 September – Register (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/introduction-to-spreadsheets-using-excel-course-tickets-163834839415)

Intermediate Spreadsheets – aimed at people with experience of using Microsoft Excel with new skills to take them to the next level.
* 13 August – Register (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/intermediate-spreadsheets-using-excel-course-tickets-162304474051)
* 23 September – Register (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/intermediate-spreadsheets-using-excel-course-tickets-163835202501)

These courses are fully-funded (subject to availability) under the Skills Support for the Workforce / Skills Support for Redundancy (SSW/SSR) programme and delivered by Serco’s expert provider, Skills Ladder. To be eligible for these funded courses:
* The learner has to be employed by the organisation (or self-employed)
* The learner has to be eligible to work in the UK
* The learner must be aged 16+ (no upper age restriction)
* The organisation has to be a SME (less than 250 employees)
* Serco are not able to offer training to anyone that is already on an Apprenticeship programme
* De Minimis – The company must not have received more than €200,000 (cash grant equivalent) of European Funding over a 3-year fiscal period
* The company must have a balance sheet of less than €43M, or an annual turnover of less than €50M

Or
* The person is either employed and ‘at risk’ of redundancy, or unemployed due to being made redundant in the last three months

If you would like more information on the courses simply click on the ‘register’ links above. If you would like more information on the SSW/SSR programme, please email skillssupport@serco.com (mailto:skillssupport@serco.com) .

New assets to help businesses work safely

Public Health England have shared new social media assets to share and help businesses work safely, which are available to download from their Coronavirus Resource Centre (https://coronavirusresources.phe.gov.uk/covid-19-health-behaviours/resources/business-assets/) .

You can view the full updated guidance for workplaces on working safely at: GOV.UK/working-safely
Useful links

We are providing regular updates on the Coronavirus business support page (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-coronavirus) on our website.
You can also follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wiltscouncil) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WiltshireCouncil/) .
For central government updates follow:
* GOV.UK support for business (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19)
* Public Health England (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england)
* NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/)

Sign up to receive this Business newsletter direct to your inbox (https://mailchi.mp/fa3d04e4d1a7/update)

23 July 2021
This newsletter provides updates on help and advice available locally for businesses.

Read back issues of this business newsletter (https://us5.campaign-archive.com/home/?u=2883905f726c9fc694bef8b9e&id=3850daa318)
Visit our COVID-19 page for our latest updates (http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19)
FAQs and the latest business advice for Step 4

We’re asking people to continue to be cautious and still do what they can to keep each other safe. From Monday, the majority of COVID restrictions were removed, but people should continue to reduce the risk of transmission and follow the recommended safety measures. To help you keep your staff and customers safe, we have created a series of FAQs that explain best practice.
Read the FAQs (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wiltshire.gov.uk%2Fbusiness-advice-support-covid19&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7Cb9a38e030c67481f937308d94dd8949c%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637626414862185025%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=dDTesyy1JRWlYU0cNmd4J4cYyAQG6xaWpqPdYFvVp7o%3D&reserved=0)
Get your business in shape for growth

The following programmes are delivered by SETsquared (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.setsquared.co.uk%2F&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7C583fd84063eb41ff660608d94dbca383%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637626294847175564%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=Rz2wRp9f8qmanX3Afvs0KU5cW7lop9Ny%2FTxi%2FXkvvGE%3D&reserved=0)  and funded by the ERDF, and are offered free of charge to Swindon and Wiltshire business founders and teams.

Innovation workout for established businesses
This fast-paced and dynamic workout will help you to identify new areas for growth and innovation. It will give you the opportunity to consider different financial models, develop new and existing products as well as identify new revenue streams. The outcome will be a developed business model with a greater potential for investment and growth.
Upcoming dates:
* 20 and 21 September, online
* 15 and 16 November, online

Find out more and register. (https://bcn.to/x2V)

Entrepreneurs workout for early-stage, start-up companies
Lay strong foundations for a successful business, with this fast-paced and interactive workout. It will help you to develop all aspects of your business including your business model, value proposition, customer segmentation, channels for winning customers and revenue model. It culminates in the opportunity to pitch your business model to a panel of experts and speed mentoring giving you lots of valuable feedback on your business.
Upcoming dates:
* 4, 5 and 8 October (half days, online)

Find out more & register (https://bcn.to/x2W) .
Future Chippenham update

This week Cabinet approved a new Future Chippenham scheme based on feedback received during the recent public consultation on the distributor road route options.

This scheme is based on the southern section of the distributor road from the A4 through to the A350 junction at Lackham roundabout delivering between 3,800 to 4,200 new homes and associated infrastructure. This is still dependent on the sites being allocated in the Local Plan review and agreement from Homes England.

You can find out more about the feedback from the consultation and this new scheme in the Cabinet report which is available on our website (https://cms.wiltshire.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=141&MId=14111&Ver=4) .

We have also launched our Future Chippenham newsletter which will provide regular updates on the scheme. You can sign up to receive a copy direct to your inbox (https://mailchi.mp/fa3d04e4d1a7/update) .
Useful links

We are providing regular updates on the Coronavirus business support page (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-coronavirus) on our website.
You can also follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wiltscouncil) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WiltshireCouncil/) .
For central government updates follow:
* GOV.UK support for business (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19)
* Public Health England (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england)
* NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/)

In the Chancellor’s second real Budget on 3 March 2021 he announced that he had to level with people about the state of the UK economy.  Prior to Budget day there were fewer leaks than normal about possible tax changes. There were however announcements prior to Budget day of grants for High Street businesses and the hospitality sector and the widely predicted extension of the furlough scheme.

Rishi Sunak has chosen a fine line between raising taxes to start paying down the massive Government borrowings but at the same time stimulate economic recovery and save jobs. He was also mindful of pledges made in the Conservative Party manifesto not to raise income tax, VAT and national insurance. So that leaves corporation tax, CGT and inheritance tax…

Maybe he will delay the announcement of significant increases in taxation until later in the year as it is anticipated that there will be a further Budget in the Autumn. By then the economy will hopefully have started to bounce back.

It has already been announced that there will be important consultation documents issued on 23 March which will seek views on future tax changes. That may be when the expected reforms to CGT and IHT will be announced.

CJRS FURLOUGH SCHEME EXTENDED TO 30 SEPTEMBER

The current version of the furlough scheme that started on 1 November 2020 was scheduled to end on 30 April 2021. In order to avoid a “cliff-edge” with resulting widespread redundancies the chancellor has announced a further extension of the scheme and also a phased reduction in support to employers. The CJRS furlough grant for May and June will remain at 80% of the employees’ usual pay for hours not working but it will then be limited to 70% for July and then 60% for August and September.

This phased reduction will operate in a similar way as in September and October 2020 with the employer being required to contribute the remaining 10% and then 20% of an employee’s regular pay so that they continue to receive 80% pay for furloughed hours.

In addition to the 10% and 20% contributions employers will continue to be responsible for paying employers national insurance and pension contributions on the full amount being paid to employees.

Contact us if you need assistance with your CJRS furlough claims.

SELF-EMPLOYED INCOME SUPPORT GRANTS ALSO EXTENDED

In line with the further extension of the CJRS furlough scheme for employees the chancellor has also set out further support for the self-employed. We had been waiting for the details of the calculation of the fourth SEISS grant covering the period to 30 April and we now know that the support will continue to be 80% of average profits for the reference period capped at £2,500 a month and can be claimed from late April. There will then be a fifth SEISS grant covering the 5 months to 30 September.

The chancellor has also bowed to pressure to extend the scheme to include certain traders who were previously excluded. Thus, those who commenced self-employment in 2019/20 will now be included provided they had submitted their 2019/20 tax return by 2 March 2021. This is potentially a further 600,000 traders.

Conditions for the fifth grant will be linked to a reduction in business turnover. Self-employed individuals whose turnover has fallen by 30% or more will continue to receive the full grant worth 80% of three months’ average trading profits, capped at £2,500 a month. Those whose turnover has fallen by less than 30% will receive a 30% grant, capped at £950 a month. We are awaiting further details of this fifth grant.

CORPORATION TAX RATES TO INCREASE

TO 25% BUT NOT FOR ALL COMPANIES

The UK corporation tax rate is currently one of the lowest rates of the G20 countries and the government states it is committed to keeping the rate competitive.

That should have the effect of encouraging companies to remain in the UK and companies to set up here. With other countries considering raising corporate tax rates the chancellor has announced that the UK will follow suit and consequently the rate will increase to 25% from 1 April 2023 where profits exceed £250,000. However, where a company’s profits do not exceed £50,000 the rate will remain at the current 19% rate and there will be a taper above £50,000. Businesses will however be able to take advantage of new tax breaks to encourage investment in equipment and an enhanced carry back of losses.

SUPER-DEDUCTION FOR INVESTMENT IN NEW EQUIPMENT

In order to encourage companies to invest in new capital equipment the chancellor announced a radical new “super-deduction” of 130% where they invest in new plant. This would mean that when a company buys plant costing £10,000 they would qualify for a £13,000 deduction in arriving at business profits. The new deduction, which will run for two years from 1 April 2021, will not be available for motor cars. Certain assets such as fixtures in buildings will only qualify for 50% relief in the first year instead of the normal 6% writing down allowance.

THREE YEAR CARRY BACK OF TRADING LOSSES

Many businesses will have made a loss in the last year as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and the difficult trading environment.

Trading losses can normally only be set against profits of the preceding accounting period or previous tax year in the case of unincorporated businesses.

The chancellor has announced that the carry back period will be temporarily increased to three years thereby enabling the business to obtain a tax refund. For companies this will apply to loss making accounting periods ending in the period 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2022. For unincorporated traders, the extended loss relief will apply to losses incurred in 2020/21 and 2021/22.

The amount of trading losses that can be carried back to the preceding year remains unlimited for companies. After carry back to the preceding year, a maximum of £2,000,000 of unused losses will then be available for carry back against profits of the same trade of the previous 2 years. There will be a similar £2,000,000 limit for unincorporated businesses.

NO CHANGES TO INCOME TAX RATES AND PERSONAL ALLOWANCE FROZEN

The basic rate of income tax and higher rate remain at 20% and 40% respectively, and the 45% additional rate continues to apply to income over £150,000.

The personal allowance and higher rate threshold have been increased in line with inflation to £12,570 and £50,270 respectively for 2021/22. These thresholds will then be frozen until 2025/26 possibly yielding an extra £19 billion for the government.

There had again been rumours that the dividend rate might be increased, but dividends continue to be taxed at 7.5%, 32.5% and then 38.1%, depending upon whether the dividends fall into the basic rate band, higher rate band or the additional rate band. Note that the first £2,000 of dividend income continues to be tax-free.

NATIONAL INSURANCE RATES

The national insurance contribution (NIC) rates and bandings were announced 16 December 2020 to take effect from 6 April 2021.

Employees and the self-employed will not pay national insurance contributions (NIC) on the first £9,570 of earnings for 2021/22, an increase of £1 a week. The employee contribution rate continues to be 12% up to the Upper Earnings limit £50,270, with the self-employed paying 9% on their profits up to the same level. Note that employer contributions will apply to earnings over £170 per week, £8,840 per annum which is also a £1 a week increase.

5% VAT RATE FOR FOOD, ATTRACTIONS AND ACCOMMODATION EXTENDED

In order to continue to support businesses and jobs in the hospitality sector, the reduced 5% rate of VAT will continue to apply to supplies of food and non-alcoholic drinks from restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés and similar premises across the UK until 30 September 2021.

The 5% reduced rate of VAT will also continue to apply to supplies of accommodation and admission to attractions across the UK.

From 1 October until 31 March 2022 the rate will be set at 12.5% and will then revert to 20% from 1 April 2022.

VAT REGISTRATION LIMIT FROZEN AT £85,000 UNTIL 1 APRIL 2024

The VAT registration limit normally goes up each year in line with inflation but will remain at £85,000 for a further two years. Arguably this makes it easier for businesses to assess whether or not they are required to register for VAT as it is no longer a moving target.

MAKING TAX DIGITAL EXTENDED TO ALL VAT REGISTERED BUSINESSES FROM 1 APRIL 2022

The government has confirmed that the requirement to maintain accounting records in a digital format and submit the data to HMRC electronically will be extended to all VAT registered businesses from 1 April 2022 regardless of the level of taxable supplies.

NEW GRANTS FOR HIGH STREET BUSINESSES AND HOSPITALITY SECTOR

Businesses forced to close due to the Coronavirus lockdown will be eligible to apply for grants of up to £18,000 depending upon the rateable value of their business premises. Pubs, restaurants, hotels, gyms and hairdressers will be eligible for a grant of up to £18,000 per premises whilst non-essential retail businesses will be eligible to apply for a grant up to a maximum of £6,000.

The grants are intended to be a contribution towards the fixed costs of the business during the period that they have been unable to trade normally. Staff costs continue to be covered by the CJRS furlough scheme.

The government will also continue to provide eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties in England with 100% business rates relief from 1 April 2021 to 30 June 2021. This will be followed by 66% business rates relief for the period from 1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022, capped at £2 million per business for properties that were required to be closed on 5 January 2021.

Unfortunately, the “Eat out to Help Out” scheme will not be reintroduced this Summer.

NEW RECOVERY LOAN SCHEME

The government have already announced a longer repayment period for “Bounce-back” and CBIL loans. From 6 April 2021 a new Recovery Loan Scheme will provide lenders with a guarantee of 80% on eligible loans between £25,000 and £10 million to give them confidence in continuing to provide finance to UK businesses. The scheme will be open to all businesses, including those who have already received support under the existing COVID-19 guaranteed loan schemes.

SDLT THRESHOLDS EXTENDED

Last March in order to stimulate the housing market the Chancellor announced a temporary cut in Stamp Duty Land Tax for home buyers across England and Northern Ireland which was scheduled to last until 31 March 2021.

This has now been further extended until 30 June 2021 so that transactions in progress will continue to benefit from the reduced rates.

As a transitional measure from 1 July 2021 the Nil Rate Band of Residential SDLT in England and Northern Ireland will then decrease to £250,000 for 3 months until 1 October 2021 when it will revert to £125,000 for purchases completed on or after that date. There has been no change to the SDLT rates above the Nil Rate Band. The 3% supplementary charge for second and subsequent homes in England and Northern Ireland will continue to apply.

Note that there are different rates of tax on property transactions in Scotland and Wales as such taxes have been devolved in those countries.

5% MORTGAGE SCHEMES EXTENDED

Another measure announced to stimulate the housing sector is a new 95% mortgage scheme guaranteed by the government that will mean that people buying a house will only need a 5% deposit where the purchase price is no more than £600,000.

APPRENTICESHIP SCHEMES EXTENDED

The current apprenticeship scheme will be improved with payments of £3,000 to employers in England for each new apprentice they hire aged under 25 and continue to pay the employer £1,500 for each new apprentice they hire aged over 25. The schemes will now run until 30 September 2021.

Starting in January 2022 there will be a new “flexi-job” apprenticeship which will allow individuals to work for more than one company via an agency.

The “Kickstart” Scheme announced in the Summer 2020 Plan for Jobs will continue to be available for the 2021/22 academic year to create 6-month work placements aimed at those aged 16-24 who are on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. Employers who provide trainees with work experience will continue to be funded at a rate of £1,000 per trainee.

EIGHT NEW FREEPORTS ANNOUNCED

In eight locations around England there will be generous tax breaks to encourage businesses to locate there. These tax breaks include an exemption from SDLT, 100% first year allowances on plant and a 10% per annum structures and buildings allowance.

Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub acts swiftly to get EU Exit business support in place

Since 1 January 2021, new rules apply to businesses trading with Europe.  This follows the end of the Brexit transition period, and the UK’s exit from the EU single market and customs union.

Under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (agreed 24 December) there will be no tariffs or quotas on the movement of goods between the UK and the EU.  However, traders must be ready for new customs and border processes implemented by EU member states from 1 January 2021.

Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub has set up a new service to help local businesses understand what the changes mean for them.  The business readiness team will operate as part of the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub, which has a strong record for supporting local business.

A team of business navigators will be available to firms across Swindon and Wiltshire from 5 January, to provide information and advice, as well as access to specialist support.

Businesses can contact the team via:

Tel:       01249 477 288

Email:   support@swlep.co.uk (mailto:support@swlep.co.uk)

Web:    https://hs-3039733.t.hubspotstarter-i6.net/e2t/sc2/Mm-nFbkCBN9W5TZHnM87dFn0W4JJljC726QqMW70Smjh5tLq_hf1HVPN203 (https://hs-3039733.t.hubspotstarter-i6.net/e2t/sc2/Mm-nFbkCBN9W5TZHnM87dFn0W4JJljC726QqMW70Smjh5tLq_hf1HVPN213 )

Let us know the imapcts to you business
(https://hs-3039733.t.hubspotstarter-i6.net/e2t/sc2/Mm-nFbkCBN9W5TZHnM87dFn0W4JJljC726QqMW70Smjh5tLq_hf1HVPN223 )

5 January 2021
National lockdown: Stay at Home

Yesterday evening (Monday 4 January), the Prime Minister announced that due to rapidly rising cases of COVID-19, England will be going into a national lockdown, until at least February half term, from today (Tuesday 5 January).

This means you must stay at home. The single most important action we can all take is to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

You should follow the new guidance immediately and this means you must not leave your home without a ‘reasonable excuse.’ The law has been updated to reflect these new rules.
Find out what you can and cannot do in the national lockdown (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home)

Guidance on shielding

If you are clinically vulnerable, you could be at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. The government is advising the clinically extremely vulnerable to begin shielding again, and letters will be sent out to individuals with advice on what this means for them.
More guidance on shielding (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19)
Latest COVID-19 cases in Wiltshire

COVID-19 cases in Wiltshire continue to rise sharply with the case rate per 100k increasing from 158.2 to 245.2 in the last seven days.

It’s vital that we all play our part in protecting ourselves and each other.

Please remember, hands, face, space.

Stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

Wiltshire COVID-19 public update – Live!

Join us tomorrow (Wednesday 6 January) at 7pm for a half-hour live COVID-19 Public Update.

The online broadcast will feature Wiltshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Whitehead, Chief Executive, Terence Herbert and Director of Public Health, Kate Blackburn.

They will be providing an update on the Government’s National lockdown:Stay at Home restrictions announced by the Prime Minister yesterday, Wiltshire Council services and our work to continue to support residents and businesses at this time.

The live briefing will be broadcast via Microsoft Teams. Please download the Microsoft Teams app to your device in advance and use this link to join (https://teams.microsoft.com/dl/launcher/launcher.html?url=%2F_%23%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%3Ameeting_MjM1MGQyZjAtNGY0Ny00NTQ2LWJlOWItZjM3OGQ5NmQ3YTRi%40thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257B%2522Tid%2522%3A%25225546e75e-3be1-4813-b0ff-26651ea2fe19%2522%2C%2522Oid%2522%3A%25221795bbd5-30bf-4321-ae10-4433b5da467f%2522%2C%2522IsBroadcastMeeting%2522%3Atrue%257D%26anon%3Dtrue&type=meetup-join&deeplinkId=e4a73760-759f-405a-9c13-1bc48cfd3aeb&directDl=true&msLaunch=true&enableMobilePage=true&suppressPrompt=true) .

You will be able to post questions during the event and we will try to answer as many as possible during the update.

The briefing will also be recorded and available via our YouTube channel
as soon as possible afterwards.

How the national lockdown will affect our services

Being in a national lockdown will affect how we are able to deliver some of our services.
Schools

All primary schools, secondary schools and colleges have closed for the majority of students and pupils will switch to remote learning.

Schools in Wiltshire will remain open for children of key workers and vulnerable children where they can.
View the critical worker guidance (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision)
Early Years settings

Early years settings including nurseries and childminders can remain open.
If your child attends an early years setting – please contact them directly to see if they’re still open.
Libraries

Our libraries will close until further notice.

We will be moving to an order and collect service, which will be in place while the libraries remain closed.

We’ll publish information on this as soon as possible.

eBooks, Audio and eMagazines are still available for members on our website (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/1302/eBooks-Audio-and-eMagazines) .
More about our library services (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/libraries-news)
Leisure centres

Our leisure centres will close until further notice.

All direct debit members will be frozen and January direct debit payments will be refunded in due course.

Online exercises classes (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-online-classes) are still running.
More information our leisure services (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-covid19)
Household Recycling Centres and waste collection
Our household recycling centres are open as usual, but you must book in advance online.

However, please only visit your nearest HRC if it is essential to do so and the items cannot be stored safely at home.

If you have booked and your journey is not essential, please cancel your booking.
Book or cancel HRC booking (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/household-recycling-centres-book)

Business grants
The Chancellor has announced new support for businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.  New one-off grants will be available to closed businesses as follows:
* £4,000 for businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or under
* £6,000 for businesses with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000
* £9,000 for businesses with a rateable value of over £51,000

A £594 million discretionary fund is also being made available to support other impacted businesses.
We are awaiting further guidance from the government on these schemes before rolling them out to businesses.

If you have already applied for the Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme, you do not need to apply again. If your businesses was closed as a result of the restrictions in November 2020 and  you have not yet applied for a grant, please complete the application form as soon as possible.

***Scam regarding fake ‘COVID-19 government grant’***

A number of scam text messages are being received across the UK, trying to entice people into giving up their card details in order to claim a non-existent government grant.

The text message claims to come from
HM Revenue and Customs.

HMRC will never offer a tax refund by text, email or phone.
Read the Chancellor’s announcement (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/46-billion-in-new-lockdown-grants-to-support-businesses-and-protect-jobs)
Apply for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19-grants)
SCAM ALERT – FAKE NHS COVID-19 VACCINE TEXT

A fake NHS text has been circulating, telling people they’re eligible to apply for the COVID-19 vaccine.

The link in the text message leads to a fake NHS website that asks for your personal details, including your bank/card details in order to ‘check your identity’.

When you are invited for your vaccine you WILL NOT be asked for bank details or payment of any kind.

Vaccine programme

We wanted to make sure that you are aware of how the COVID-19 vaccination programme is being rolled out.

Nationally this programme is led by the NHS and in Wiltshire the Bath And North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group are the lead organisation with support from Wiltshire Council and partners.

Residents will be written to directly by the NHS with information on their appointment for the vaccine so there is no need to call NHS in advance.

If you have any queries about the timings of vaccinations or priority groups please find information on the JCVI website (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/priority-groups-for-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-advice-from-the-jcvi-30-december-2020/joint-committee-on-vaccination-and-immunisation-advice-on-priority-groups-for-covid-19-vaccination-30-december-2020#vaccine-priority-groups-advice-on-30-december-2020) where all relevant information is held.

Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub

Our Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub remains in place for those who may need additional support.

You can call the hub on 0300 003 4576 or email wellbeinghub@wiltshire.gov.uk
It’s open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

Those who require help with tasks such as picking up food and other essentials, should ask friends or family or order online.

If they do not have family, friends or a support network that can help, please contact the Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub and request help.

Need some mental health support? Below are all the numbers you’ll need.

•    North Team – 01249 468500
•    South Team – 01722432555
•    West Team – 01249 706611
•    Emergency Duty Service for out of hours and weekends – 0300 456 0100 (Option 7 then 1 for Adults)
•    0300 303 1320 – Avon & Wilts mental health care provider (24/7)
•    0808 196 3382 – NHS ‘GoodSam’
•    01380 724833 – Richmond Fellowship Mon-Fri 24 hours

COVID-19
Christmas Public health advice and guidance For your business and employees

Please use the link below to view the Covid 19 Christmas Business Pack from Wiltshire Council

Contents
Letter from Kate Blackburn
COVID-19 symptoms response – business
COVID-19 symptoms response – employees
COVID-19 key definitions
Information on face coverings
COVID-19 staying safe this Christmas
Social media images
Christmas poster to display
Symptoms poster to display

COVID-19 – Christmas Business Pack [15-12-2020]

Wiltshire to remain in Tier 2: High alert

Following a Government review, Wiltshire remains in Tier 2: High alert, which is the same tier it has been in since 2 December.

This means that the following measures continue to be in place:
* you must not socialise with anyone you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble, in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
* you must not socialise in a group of more than six people outside, including gardens or public spaces
* businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a COVID-Secure (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19)  manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs
* pubs and bars must remain closed, unless operating as restaurants and alcohol can only be served with substantial meals
* hospitality businesses selling food or drink for consumption on their premises must provide table service and are now required to close between 11pm and 5am with last orders being taken at 10pm

More info on the restrictions (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-2-high-alert)
Latest Wiltshire COVID-19 cases
Wiltshire COVID-19 Cases. Total number of cases – 5,797. Cases in the last 7 days – 335. Rate of cases per 100k in Wiltshire – 67.0. Rate of cases per 100k in Wiltshire in the previous 7 days – 77.8. Rate of cases per 100k in England in the last 7 days – 173.3.

Government confirms Christmas bubbles will remain, but plan carefully and be cautious

The Government has confirmed that three households can still form a Christmas bubble between 23 and 27 December but is urging everyone to be extra cautious.

This means:
* Travel restrictions between tiers will be lifted to provide a window for households to come together between 23 and 27 December.
* Up to three households can form an exclusive ‘bubble’ to meet at home during this period. When a bubble is formed it is fixed, and must not be changed or extended further at any point.
* Each Christmas bubble can meet at home, at a place of worship or an outdoor public place, but existing, more restrictive rules on hospitality and meeting in other venues will be maintained throughout this period.

In addition the Government wants people to:
* think carefully about who is part of their bubble
* limit the amount of people they see in the lead up to, and during. the Christmas period
* be very mindful of seeing anyone particularly vulnerable
* try and limit travel from an area with a high prevalence of COVID-19 to an area of low prevalence
* avoid overnight stays where possible
* avoid crowds
* not gather in groups over New Year

Read the full announcement (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-a-christmas-bubble-with-friends-and-family/making-a-christmas-bubble-with-friends-and-family)

10 December 2020

NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme

A COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer/BioNTech has now formally been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

This week vaccinations started for people most at risk for coronavirus and the NHS will continue their programme of vaccinating priority groups against COVID-19 over the coming months.

The NHS will let you know when it’s your turn to have the vaccine. It’s important not to contact the NHS for a vaccination before then.

The COVID-19 vaccination programme is a huge logistical undertaking and the NHS has been working with partners including Wiltshire Council to plan the delivery of an effective roll out.

In the meantime it is important that everyone continues to adhere to all relevant COVID-19 guidance.

You can follow @NHSEngland  (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftracking.vuelio.co.uk%2Ftracking%2Fclick%3Fd%3DlIxgWXRUAbX9pGHNI8vqVmiPwO8P1ZPBnJpHiGT4GM5Z_5SOqUk5XjJSqy3wkntmKw3v2IOeL0SSAJh5gccBooVUMbnXLurJ24EuXWN8xZjEK_OWwGJfnTWR7kxcZO5_lzv1VAKkMqG_zhALdO2V2sk1&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7C61288d5f0c024a20c51608d89c66d1a0%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637431312700214061%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=eUpR5yOzqjCbMykLsetJ0xPpAFg%2BoNmJR7%2BpxPbCKEY%3D&reserved=0) on Twitter for the latest developments over the coming days.
find out more information about the roll-out of the vaccine (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-vaccination-why-you-are-being-asked-to-wait/why-you-have-to-wait-for-your-covid-19-vaccine)

Wiltshire COVID-19 cases
Wiltshire COVID-19 Cases. Total number of cases – 5,429. Cases in the last 7 days – 385. Rate of cases per 100k in Wiltshire in the last 7 days – 77. Rate of cases per 100k in Wiltshire in the previous 7 days – 80.2. Rate of cases per 100k in England in the last 7 days – 148.7. Gov data as of 07/12/2020 at 4pm. #WiltshireTogether
Keep wearing face coverings

We’re reminding people to play their part in protecting each other against spreading COVID-19 by wearing a face covering where required.

Face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus that causes COVID-19. The majority of people are expected to wear them in certain circumstances but there are some exemptions.

Those who are exempt are able to download and display a card (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own) if they wish to.
More details on where to wear face coverings (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/keep-wearing-face-coverings)

COVID-19 Test and Trace Support Payment scheme

We are urging eligible residents to apply for the Test and Trace Support Scheme, which is in place to help support those who are out of pocket because they are having to self-isolate.

Financial support continues to be available for people on low incomes who are required to self-isolate due to COVID-19 and will lose money because they are unable to work.

If you are required to self-isolate then it is important you do not delay submitting your form, as the council cannot accept applications made more than 14 days after the end of a person’s self-isolation period.
More information on eligibility and how to apply (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/benefits-test-and-trace)

Shop local

Shopping local helps support the local economy, creates jobs and boosts local communities.

Whether you are buying a loaf of bread from a local family-run bakery to choosing a quirky gift from an independent shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and local communities get back up and running. With the festive season just around the corner, and restrictions still in place, how we shop and where we shop is more important than ever.

To support local retailers and small businesses during the COVID-19 crisis we have put together a Shop Local, Support Wiltshire Directory. Sorted by place, shoppers can find the businesses close to them, many offering the option to buy online or click and collect.

Remember – Shop Safe, Shop Local, Shop Online, Support Wiltshire.
View the shop local, support Wiltshire directory (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/shop-local-wiltshire)

Explore Salisbury with the new Salisbury Trails App

If you’re looking to get out and about to enjoy the fresh air why not download the  new, free, easy to use app, Salisbury Trails, which guides people to Salisbury’s key landmarks, historic sites and cultural and arts venues.

Find the city sights close by and discover the stories behind them, or follow a themed trail to explore the city’s rich heritage and uncover hidden histories.

The app , which is available to download to Apple and Android devices, also includes historic photos, engravings and information from the archives of the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre that show how Salisbury has changed over time.
Find out more about the app (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/News/Salisbury-Trails-App)

Gain new skills with free courses

Tens of thousands of adults will be able to benefit from almost 400 free courses (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/qualifications-in-new-funded-offers)  next year, in the first major development in the Lifetime Skills Guarantee.

The fully-funded courses (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/qualifications-in-new-funded-offers) , ranging from engineering to healthcare to conservation, will be available to adults without a full qualification at Level 3 (A-level equivalent) from April 2021 to help them gain in-demand skills and open up further job opportunities.

Designed to help our country build back better after the pandemic, the qualifications in this offer have been carefully chosen to help adults improve their career prospects and meet the needs of the economy. They will be reviewed regularly so the courses offered can be updated as the economy changes.
Find out more about the Lifetime Skills Guarantee (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/adults-to-gain-new-skills-on-400-free-courses)
Don’t give COVID-19 for Christmas – keep playing your part. Carefully weigh up the risk of who is in your Christmas bubble. Limit the people in your Christmas bubble. Remember to keep socially distancing, wash hands regularly, wear masks where required. Hopefully next year we can all have a merrier Christmas! #WiltshireTogether

Wiltshire placed in Tier 2: High alert

Wiltshire is now in Tier 2: High alert, which is one higher than before the recent current period of national restrictions which ended on 2 December.

This means that measures are in place including:
* you must not socialise with anyone you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble, in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
* you must not socialise in a group of more than six people outside, including gardens or public spaces
* businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a COVID-Secure (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19)  manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs
* pubs and bars must remain closed, unless operating as restaurants and alcohol can only be served with substantial meals
* hospitality businesses selling food or drink for consumption on their premises must provide table service and are now required to close between 11pm and 5am with last orders being taken at 10pm

Full list of restrictions (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-restriction-tiers-what-you-need-to-know#high-alert)
Wiltshire COVID-19 cases
Support and childcare bubbles

There is separate guidance for support bubbles (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Fmaking-a-support-bubble-with-another-household&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7C43624316f77d4fe727be08d897980f42%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637426026626029868%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=FJVZfCQyRqc8E1A178EKY5fBm6wu%2FG0bzvLM9avHO8g%3D&reserved=0) and childcare bubbles (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Fmaking-a-childcare-bubble-with-another-household&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7C43624316f77d4fe727be08d897980f42%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637426026626039821%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=RQM7hA1KK5GybOKLrTu8oc9JuoRg0giUAKM7ft3hB9k%3D&reserved=0) across all tiers. Support bubbles have
been expanded. You can form a support bubble with another household if any of the following apply to you:
* you are the only adult in your household – any other members of the household having been under 18 on 12 June 2020 – or are an under-18-year-old living alone
* you live with someone with a disability who requires continuous care and there is no other adult living in the household
* you live with a child who is under 1, or who was under 1 on 2 December 2020
* you live with a child who is under 5, or who was under 5 on 2 December 2020, with a disability

Childcare bubbles are separate from support bubbles.

If you’re eligible, you can form one childcare bubble and one support bubble with different households. You must not meet socially with your support bubble and childcare bubble at the same time. Childcare bubbles must be used exclusively for the purposes of childcare.
More information (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-2-high-alert#support-and-childcare-bubbles)
Join Wiltshire Council for a COVID-19 Live Public Update on Tuesday 8 December

We will be broadcasting our second COVID-19 Live Public Update on Tuesday 8 December at 5pm.

Wiltshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Whitehead, will be joined by Terence Herbert, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Council and Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health to help guide you through the latest information and regulations.

The broadcast will be an opportunity to hear about the new Tier 2: ‘High Alert’ category Wiltshire has been placed in, the latest number and the rate of positive COVID-19 cases in the county, the arrangements in place to mitigate the spread of the virus, and the work we continue to do to support residents and businesses at this time.

You can submit your questions about COVID-19 and the local response in advance by emailing communications@wiltshire.gov.uk (mailto:communications@wiltshire.gov.uk)  no later than 5pm on Sunday 6 December.

The live briefing will be broadcast via Microsoft Teams. Viewers should download the Microsoft Teams app to their device in advance and use this link to join: 8 December COVID-19 public update (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_Nzk3ZmNlYjYtMDljMy00ZjBlLTg4ZDYtNzVhNTk1MjU2M2Zm%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%25225546e75e-3be1-4813-b0ff-26651ea2fe19%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%25221795bbd5-30bf-4321-ae10-4433b5da467f%2522%252c%2522IsBroadcastMeeting%2522%253atrue%257d&data=04%7C01%7CJack.Holdway%40wiltshire.gov.uk%7C8d63de9a1a224866b3c408d896d956e4%7C5546e75e3be14813b0ff26651ea2fe19%7C0%7C0%7C637425207489392423%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=B1KJO2IGfgevpKSHWg0nvqwFCHwNWyY95N3VVMigm%2BI%3D&reserved=0) .

The briefing will also be recorded and available via our YouTube channel as soon as possible afterwards.
Full details on the live public update (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/covid-briefing-december)

COVID-19 Test and Trace Support Payment scheme

We are urging eligible residents to apply for the Test and Trace Support Scheme, which is in place to help support those who are out of pocket because they are having to self-isolate.

Financial support continues to be available for people that are on low incomes who are required to self-isolate due to COVID-19 and will lose money because they are unable to work, who may be eligible for a lump sum of £500.

There are a number of reasons that ineligible people are applying for the scheme or applications are being refused.
More details on this (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/benefits-test-and-trace)

Give a little time – make a big difference!

We are asking people to consider offering a lifeline to families with children who may have a range of needs, by training to be a carer as part of the Overnight Short Breaks Scheme.

We have a team of carers who are trained and supported to provide regular breaks for children with autism, learning disabilities or physical disabilities.

Families who are bringing up a child with disabilities often find it very difficult to have time to themselves, to spend time with their other children or do everyday tasks people take for granted, and sometimes they need a break.
More details on the scheme (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/call-for-more-overnight-short-breaks-carers)

Have your say on proposed cycling schemes

We have received £681,000 from the second tranche of the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Active Travel Fund to progress cycling schemes in the county.

The award is less than the £908,000 that we originally bid for, and so to establish which schemes to take forward, we are holding a consultation on the proposed options, and also consulting on the first tranche of temporary schemes, which are already in place.
To find out more about the schemes (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/highways-road-reallocation-schemes)

We’re good to go

Visitors are once again able to explore Wiltshire’s museums.

Six museums, including Wiltshire Museum, Chippenham Museum and Salisbury Museum have opened their doors so that you can enjoy a COVID-safe visit and catch up with some Christmas shopping.

Check the website for opening hours and pre-booking of each museum before visiting so that your experience is as enjoyable as possible.
More on this (http://museumsinwiltshire.org.uk/good-to-go)

26 November 2020
Wiltshire placed in Tier 2: High alert

From 2 December the Government will be reintroducing the tier system where different levels or restriction apply in different parts of the country.

Wiltshire has been placed in Tier 2: High alert, which is one higher than before the current period of national restrictions. This means that from 2 December measures will be in place including:
* you must not socialise with anyone you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble, in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
* you must not socialise in a group of more than six people outside, including gardens or public spaces
* businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a COVID-Secure (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19)  manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs
* pubs and bars must remain closed, unless operating as restaurants and alcohol can only be served with substantial meals
* hospitality businesses selling food or drink for consumption on their premises must provide table service and are now required to close between 11pm and 5am with last orders being taken at 10pm

Full list of restrictions (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-restriction-tiers-what-you-need-to-know#high-alert)
Update from Wiltshire Council Chief Executive

Chief Executive, Terence Herbert provides the latest update and outlines how we will be providing support during this time.
Watch the full video (https://youtu.be/qyQ5XRv9xto)
Wiltshire COVID-19 cases
What impact does this have on our services?

Our libraries and leisure centres (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-covid19) will be able to open their doors to you again and will be operating the same service as before the current national restrictions were introduced.

Leisure Centres are due to open again on 3 December. Some libraries are expected to reopen next week, dates will be confirmed shortly.

Weddings will be able to take place again with up to 15 people able to attend wedding ceremonies. Up to 30 people will be able to attend funerals.

During the current national restrictions, traders at our street markets were only able to sell food, but from 2 December they will once again be able to sell their full range of products and produce.

We will keep our COVID-19 page (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-coronavirus) as up to date as possible with any other information on our services.
Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub

Anyone can access the Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub who may be struggling during this difficult time, this may include those who are self-isolating and don’t have a support network around them or know where to get help.

People can call the hub on 0300 003 4576 or email wellbeinghub@wiltshire.gov.uk (mailto:wellbeinghub@wiltshire.gov.uk) Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

People should be aware the opening hours will be regularly reviewed throughout the coming weeks and months.
More on the Wellbeing Hub (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/support-from-wellbeing-hub)

Support for businesses

There is also a range of Government business support schemes to support businesses during the COVID-19 restrictions.

All the details can be found on our website. (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/business-advice-support-covid19-grants)

You can also email any queries to covid-19businesssupport@wiltshire.gov.uk (mailto:covid-19businesssupport@wiltshire.gov.uk)

Wiltshire COVID-19 public update – Live!

We are broadcasting our second live public COVID-19 update next month, to provide the latest local information and to answer your questions.

The broadcast takes place on Tuesday 8 December at 5pm.

Wiltshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Whitehead, will once again be joined by Terence Herbert, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Council and Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health to help guide you through the latest information and regulations.

The broadcast will be an opportunity to hear about the latest number of positive cases and the rate of COVID-19 cases in Wiltshire, the arrangements in place to mitigate the spread of the virus, and the work we continue to do to support residents and businesses at this time.
Full details on the live public update (https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/covid-briefing-december)

Christmas arrangements

A single set of UK-wide measures to help you come together with your loved ones in a way that is as safe as possible has been agreed.

This means:
* Travel restrictions between tiers will be lifted to provide a window for households to come together between 23 and 27 December.
* Up to three households can form an exclusive ‘bubble’ to meet at home during this period. When a bubble is formed it is fixed, and must not be changed or extended further at any point.
* Each Christmas bubble can meet at home, at a place of worship or an outdoor public place, but existing, more restrictive rules on hospitality and meeting in other venues will be maintained throughout this period.

Read the full announcement (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-statement-on-uk-wide-christmas-arrangements-from-the-uk-government-and-devolved-administrations)
COVID-19 Winter Plan

The government has published its COVID-19 Winter Plan which sets out the approach to ending the national restrictions on 2 December and aims to:

•    suppress the spread of infection;
•    find new ways of managing the virus to return life closer to normal;
•    minimise damage to the economy and to protect jobs and education.
Read the plan now (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-winter-plan)