We hope that you and your family & loved ones are safe and well. This is not an easy time for any of us and everyone has to adjust to a different way of living. Just like our business colleagues and partners, we’re closely following the impact that the coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on our local communities and the small businesses within them.
We understand that many of you will be experiencing new and unexpected challenges during this difficult time and we’re committed to providing you with as much support as possible in this period of uncertainty. Underlines (like most of our readers and subscribers) is a small business and is facing the same challenges that you are facing. We are working remotely so your telephone calls and emails will be answered promptly.
Here are some quick options and ideas:
Communications
Make sure that you inform customers about any changes to your service operations, opening hours or delivery options as soon as possible. Furthermore, be sure to announce these changes across your entire website and social media channels. Honesty and transparency are always appreciated and, given current circumstances, most people will understand if it’ll take longer for them to receive their goods and services.
In any case, any messages sent out to your customers should be as brief and clear as possible, since many will probably be busy dealing with the effects of the outbreak on their personal lives.
Government and national resources
Even during these difficult times, you’ve still got a business to run and ongoing costs to meet. At the time of writing, to help with this the UK government has announced that it will offer a 100% Business Rates retail discount for companies whose property’s rateable value is less than £51,000. Businesses that pay little to no rates may also receive a £3,000 grant, provided they’re currently eligible for Small Business Rate Relief (SBBR) or Rural Rates Relief. In addition to this, the government will soon be launching a new ‘Business Interruption Loan Scheme’ that will support small and medium-sized businesses that need access to bank lending and overdraft services.
If, however, you’re facing immediate cash flow issues, you may be able to delay your tax payments to HMRC by calling their helpline on 0800 015 559.. Alternatively, you could get in touch with the Small Business Commission https://www.smallbusinesscommissioner.gov.uk/, an independent office dedicated to assisting small businesses affected by late or unfair payment issues.
It’s also worth checking to see if you’re covered by your business insurance – especially if you’ve purchased supply chain or denial of access cover – since the Chancellor has confirmed that the government’s advice is sufficient for businesses to make a claim, where they have appropriate interruption cover for pandemics in place.
As always, you should stay on top of the latest information and advice for businesses on the government’s gov.uk website.
However finally, a personal wish to you all to keep safe and see you at the other side!
Pamela Scott, Managing Editor, Underlines Magazine
