Useful links and numbers
NI Direct
A single NI Direct page for Coronavirus is now available www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19
Tourism NI COVID-19
Online Support and helpline Helpline tel 028 9592 5313 – lines open 7 days 9am-5pm
Food Standards Agency
It is very unlikely that you can catch #COVID19 from food.The FSA have published guidance for food businesses in response to the #coronavirus pandemic at www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-food-businesses/guidance-for-food-businesses-on-coronavirus-covid-19
New HMRC Helpline Number
The tax helpline number has changed and is now 0800 024 1222.
Supplier Relief Due to Covid-19
Departments will continue paying government suppliers who provide goods and services for which demand has reduced or been paused temporarily due to Covid-19. This will ensure cash continues to flow through the supply chain & will help protect jobs. Guidance notes for Supplier Relief can be found here www.finance-ni.gov.uk
Extra Protection For Businesses
Commercial tenants who cannot pay their rent because of coronavirus will be protected from eviction, the government has announced.
Many landlords and tenants are already having conversations and reaching voluntary arrangements about rental payments due shortly but the government recognises businesses struggling with their cashflow due to coronavirus remain worried about eviction.
These measures, included in the emergency Coronavirus Bill currently going through Parliament, will mean no business will be forced out of their premises if they miss a payment in the next 3 months. Further information can be found at www.gov.uk/government/news/extra-protection-for-businesses-with-ban-on-evictions-for-commercial-tenants-who-miss-rent-payments.
Further Grants and Announcements
Business Interruption Loan Scheme: www.british-business-bank.co.uk/ourpartners/coronavirus-business-interruption-loan-scheme-cbils-2/
NI Small Business loan Fund: www.nisblf.com/
Banks
Most of our local banks have now set up dedicated teams to help business customers deal with the effects of coronavirus. Most are offering immediate working capital and some flexible arrangements in terms of managing cashflow.
Please see the latest links from local banks but please keep in touch with your bank relationship manager to receive an update bespoke to your requirements.
Ulster Bank: digital.ulsterbank.co.uk/personal/help-and-support/coronavirus.html
Bank of Ireland: www.bankofireland.com/coronavirus-update
Danske Bank: www.danskebank.co.uk/important-information/coronavirus-info
Help for Employees and Employers: Dealing with Employment Uncertainty
The current pandemic has resulted in challenging circumstances for everyone, both employees and employers.
Click on the buttons below for useful information and signposting from various bodies including the Department for Communities, Advice NI, SERC and The Open University with some helpful resources to support you navigate these uncertain times and embrace any potential opportunities which may arise.