Rochdale BID want to keep you updated with the latest news, information and advice during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Please check our website daily for more updates for businesses and website individuals.
Furlough staff
We understand that the HMRC portal allowing you to furlough staff will go live on 20th April, with the first payments being made from 30th April. As you will no doubt imagine, there will be a huge demand placed on the system.
You may want to start preparing the information you will need to try and keep the process as smooth as possible. Government guidance issued on 9th April states:
To claim, you will need:
- your employer PAYE reference number
- the number of employees being furloughed
- National Insurance Numbers for the employees you want to furlough
- Names of the employees you want to furlough
- Payroll/works number for the employees you want to furlough
- your Self Assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference or Corporation Tax Unique Taxpayer Reference or Company Registration Number
- the claim period (start and end date)
- amount claimed (per the minimum length of furloughing of 3 consecutive weeks)
- your bank account number and sort code
- your contact name
- your phone number
You will need to calculate the amount you are claiming. HMRC will retain the right to retrospectively audit all aspects of your claim.
More details can be found here:
Good Things Foundation
DCMS has been working with the Good Things Foundation on a scheme where employers can donate ICT equipment to young people who do not have access to ICT at home. The link to the scheme can be found here - https://futuredotnow.uk/devicesdotnow
Rochdale360 - an exciting immersive town centre virtual experience
Virtual alternatives have become a frequent part of our daily lives and the BID is committed to ensuring that businesses are still able to showcase themselves through 360 technology.
This 360 technology is the ultimate tool to practice social distancing, it allows users to virtually walk around a business premises from the comfort and safety of their own home via a computer, mobile device or even a virtual reality headset, it’s the next best thing to being there in person.
Rochdale360 has recently been upgraded – please take a look http://rochdale360.co.uk/
Useful Links
UK Government – Coronavirus: latest information and advice
UK Government - COVID-19: guidance for employers and businesses
UK Government – Coronavirus business support
National Health Service - Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Acas – Coronavirus advice for employers and employees
World Health Organization – Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19
If you have any queries regarding the support which his currently being offered, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 07811 278517.
Paul Ambrose
BID Manager
14 Apr 2020