Businesses across Herefordshire that have been impacted by this year’s national Covid-19 lockdown restrictions could benefit from a new discretionary grant support.

For businesses and charities that were not eligible for the April Restart Grant, a Discretionary Restart Grant is available for those that were mandated to cease their main trading activity due to the covid-19 restrictions on 5 January 21 or those that have lost 75%+ income due to sectors that were mandated to close on 5 January 21 ceasing to require their goods or services.

For businesses and charities that are not eligible for the Restart Grant or the Discretionary Restart Grant, the council will also consider making a Discretionary Restart Grant - Exceptional Circumstances award for those that have lost 50% or more of their business income for January 21 compared to January 20 (or October 20 if not trading in January 20) as a result of the Covid-19 restrictions.

Councillor Ellie Chowns, Cabinet Member for Environment, Economy and Skills, said: “Although we are making good progress in tackling COVID-19 and working towards recovery, it remains a very difficult time for Herefordshire businesses. The Discretionary Restart Grant will provide support for affected businesses that have not benefitted from recent rounds of grant support. I encourage anybody who may be eligible to take a look at the criteria and options available on our website.”

Further details, the full eligibility criteria for businesses and how to apply can be found on the Herefordshire Council website.

Published: 19th May 2021