Scottish Government extends COVID-19 support for hospitality, retail and leisure sectors

As well as grants businesses receive through the Strategic Framework Business Fund, those eligible may also receive a one-off top up grant of:

• £25,000 for hospitality businesses with a rateable value of £51,001 or more, on top of the four-weekly £3,000
• £6,000 for hospitality businesses with a rateable value of £51,000 or less, on top of the four-weekly £2,000
• £9,000 for retail and leisure businesses with a rateable value of £51,001 or more, on top of the four-weekly £3,000
• £6,000 for retail and leisure businesses with a rateable value of £51,000 or less, on top of the four-weekly £2,000

In most cases, eligible businesses that have already applied for the four-weekly payment from the Strategic Framework Business Fund may receive an automatic top-up grant.

For most, this top-up will be combined with the next payment for the Strategic Framework Business Fund on 25th January.

Businesses yet to apply for either of these funds should do so as soon as possible through their local authority website.

Finance Secretary Kate Forbes said: “Since the start of the pandemic, Scottish Government support for business and the economy has reached almost £3 billion – more than a third of our total coronavirus funding, demonstrating our commitment to provide as much help as we possibly can to our businesses.

“As promised, this additional support for hospitality, retail and leisure businesses will be available this month, in some cases doubling or tripling the amount of support we are providing. Applications are open now and payment will be made this month.”

David Lonsdale, Director of the Scottish Retail Consortium said: “Shops and high streets across Scotland have been left reeling by coronavirus. These enhanced cash grants for retail business are a financial lifeline which will help non-essential stores through the current phase of being unable to open and trade.

“There isn’t a taxpayer-funded support scheme which can replace the potential losses of store closures, so it is very encouraging that the Finance Secretary has listened and responded positively.”

What COVID-19 support is available for your business?

For full details about what COVID-19 support is available to your business in Scotland, please visit the www.FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot website.

Need more help?

We love working with self-employed professionals and independent business owners and if you are not receiving the service and support you deserve from your accountant then please talk to TaxAssist Accountants on 01730 895888 or use our online enquiry form. We offer free initial consultations, advice and support over the phone or via video meeting if you have any concerns about face-to-face meetings.

For our latest COVID-19 news and guidance for your business, please visit our dedicated Coronavirus Hub.

Date published 12 Jan 2021 | Last updated 5 Feb 2021