Financial scheme information
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
Businesses should visit the Heart of the South West Growth Hub for advice and information on any financial support, including details of the Government schemes for businesses and the self-employed.
Local grants and support information
Financial support for voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations to respond to coronavirus – The government has pledged £750 million to ensure VCSE can continue their vital work supporting the country during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, including £200 million for the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, along with an additional £150 million from dormant bank and building society accounts.
You can find out more here
Job Retention Scheme – The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ended on 30 September 2021.
You can check a previous claim here
VAT Deferral – The VAT deferral new payment scheme has now closed.
Find out about VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020.
Expanded Retail Discount Scheme
Offers 100% business rates reliefs to businesses in the retail sector, in 2020/21, regardless of their rateable value. You can see full details here. Please note that local authorities will be rebilling charities in some cases having already issued a rates bill before the Scheme was announced. You can find out more on business rates holiday for retail hospitality and leisure here.
Other Funding, Information and Assistance
Spark Somerset
A local infrastructure charity for the VCSE, providing information, support and guidance to charities across the county and supporting the coordination of volunteers as part of Coronavirus (COVID-19) response.
This website is updated regularly, as they are receiving information directly from the government, the Charities Commission and numerous national umbrella organisations.
They also have a direct link from the website to national sources such as NCVO, to make sure that users can access the latest guidance. You can find out more on the Spark Somerset website
Somerset Community Foundation
Somerset Community Foundation launched the Somerset Coronavirus Appeal in March 2020 to raise vital funds to help communities through this difficult time. They raised over £1.5 million. This funding provided almost 400 grants to local charitable groups to help them respond to urgent need. Donations provided food, medicine, counselling, emotional support, housing and so much more. You can read more on the Somerset Community Appeal webpage.
Arts Council England Emergency Funding
£160 million of emergency funding is available for organisations and individuals who need it during the Covid-19 crisis. They have also changed the funding requirements for those currently in receipt of funding. You can find out more here
Support and advice
Free information, support and advice for those needing help during Covid 19
Manage financial difficulties in your charity caused by coronavirus
Guidance about coronavirus (COVID-19) related financial difficulties in charities and how to work through them.
Guidance for the Charity Sector
Find guidance to help with running your charity during Coronavirus (COVID-19.
Reducing the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, in the workplace – Public health principles for reducing the spread of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, in the workplace.
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
You can also find free support, advice and information on sources of finance, along with assistance on working from home through your local Heart of the South West Growth Hub.
HMRC Covid Helpline
HMRC have additional helplines, including one set up to support voluntary organisations concerned about not being able to pay their tax due to coronavirus on 0800 0159 559. You can find more details about contacting HMRC here.
Mind
The charity Mind provide advice on how to support your mental wellbeing during this difficult period. The Mind website includes practical advice on coping with staying at home and updates on how the new coronavirus laws could affect your rights. There is also useful information for any young person who is currently struggling.
Step Change
Contact the debt charity Step Change to get expert debt advice and fee-free debt management to help you tackle your debts. You can find out more on their website or phone 0800 138 1111
Business Coronavirus Support
COVID-19 financial support for businesses – Find out what financial support you can get for your business.