Local authorities are now opening up their process for the discretionary business support grants, but the time to apply is already running out.
Each authority does have discretion as to exactly how they run their scheme but the government has given guidance.
If your business or charity is:
- In a shared office or workspace
- A regular market trader
- A charity that receives charitable rate relief
- or a BnB paying council tax
it is quite likely that you will be prioritised by your local authority and you should look at applying. In writing this post I have looked at the West Berkshire, Wokingham and Reading Council schemes, all of which are quite similar. In preparing to apply I would recommend gathering the following information:
- Electronic copy of passport/driving licence of person applying on your business’ behalf (probably a director)
- Company number or charity registration number and VAT registration number if applicable
- Latest set of accounts, if your business is newer than this you may be able to give other evidence such as your management accounts
- Signed Lease Agreement, Signed Licence Agreement, Signed Rental Agreement or Signed Mortgage Agreement;
- Recent management accounts or similar to demonstrate impact of Covid-19 crisis
- Payroll records to show how many staff employed (and possibly their addresses as well)
- Evidence of trading prior to 11th March 2020 – your certificate of incorporation or a prior year accounts can cover this.
Time is of the essence as applications to the Wokingham scheme close on 12th June, the Reading Council scheme closes on 14th June, while West Berkshire appear to be stating that they will prioritise applications in the order they are received so it is particularly vital to get on with this application.