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The government has set out its roadmap out of lockdown with four steps toward reopening all businesses and returning to a more normal life. Below is a summary of the timetable and how it will affect businesses.
Step 1 – no earlier than 8 March
8 March – schools reopen as well as wraparound care, including sport, for children. Stay at home rule remains in place.
29 March – organised outdoor sport (children and adults); outdoor sport and leisure facilities; all outdoor children’s activities; outdoor parent and child groups (max 15 people, excluding under 5s). People should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.
Step 2 – no earlier than 12 April
Reopening of:
- All retail
- Personal care
- Libraries and community centres
- Most outdoor attractions
- Indoor leisure inc. gyms (individual use only)
- Self-contained accommodation
- All children’s activities
- Outdoor hospitality
- Indoor parent and child groups (max 15 people, excluding under 5s)
Step 3 – no earlier than 17 May
Reopening of:
- Indoor hospitality
- Indoor entertainment and attractions
- Organised indoor sport (adult)
- Remaining accommodation
- Remaining outdoor entertainment (including performances)
Step 4 – no earlier than 21 June
Reopening of:
- Remaining businesses, including nightclubs
The timings for these steps are subject to change and will be guided by the data to protect the NHS.
There are more details of the roadmap on GOV.UK.
There is likely to be specific guidance for businesses able to reopen at each step, so please make sure that you visit our website for more information: www.easthants.gov.uk/covid-secure
The £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund offers support to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adjust to new customs procedures, rules of origin, and VAT rules when trading with the EU.
SMEs that trade only with the EU - and are therefore new to importing and exporting processes - can apply for grants of up to £2,000 to pay for practical support including training and professional advice to ensure they can continue trading effectively with the EU.
Full guidance on how you can use the grant, who can apply and how to apply, visit GOV.UK.
Our business support page includes links to grants for businesses that have been affected by coronavirus restrictions, as well as links to other sources of support.
Visit: www.easthants.gov.uk/business-support
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