On Monday the Government announced a further period of national lockdown restrictions in England expected to passed into law on 6 January and last until the Spring.

The lockdown requires some businesses to close and imposes restrictions on how some businesses provide goods and services.

The full list of businesses required to close can be found via the link below, but includes:

• non-essential retail
• hospitality venues
• accommodation
• leisure and sports facilities
• entertainment venues
• animal attractions
• indoor attractions at venues
• personal care facilities
• community centres and halls

Other businesses and venues which provide essential goods and services can stay open. Hospitality venues can still provide takeaway and delivery services, however, takeaway of alcohol will not be allowed.

A full list of the exemptions and businesses allowed to stay open can also be found via the link.

Business closure requirements

The Chancellor has announced that further grants will be provided for businesses to help them through to the Spring. One-off grants, worth up to £9,000 per property, will be available for rates liable, closed businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. Discretionary funds will also be made available to councils to support other impacted businesses.

These grants will be administered by local authorities and we will need to be issued with government guidance, and have the funds confirmed, before we can rollout a new scheme. Announcements about these grants will be made first in this newsletter.

In the meantime, we will continue to provide Local Restrictions Support Grants to eligible businesses impacted by earlier tier restrictions.

Read Grants Announcement

Apply for Local Restrictions Grant

There are several steps small business owners must consider and action now to avoid delays and costs at borders if you trade with Europe and Northern Ireland.

Information on the Government website can be found here.

SmallBusiness.co.uk have issued a detailed guide for small businesses.

Brexit guide for small businesses

The London Business Hub is delivering a new programme of webinars this month dedicated to

• digital marketing for SMEs
• the end of the EU transition period  

Information and how to register for webinars and the content is available here.

Free 1-2-1 advice and guidance to support businesses with the changes that will impact them following the end of the transition period is also available.

Visit London Business Hub

Test centres are open 7 days a week from 8.30 am to 10 pm and staff are needed to work various shifts (8 hours). These are paid positions and training will be provided.

If you would like further information or to submit a CV please contact the Employment Team.

Preference is given to LBWF residents of 19 years and over.

Email the Employment Team

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