Businesses across Rugby and Bulkington affected by the Coronavirus crisis will be able to claim up to £2,500 a month per employee towards staff wages as part of the Government’s Job Retention Scheme, which went live on Monday 20 April.
Employers can apply for direct cash grants through HMRC’s new online portal - with the money expected to land in their bank accounts within six working days. The job retention scheme, announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of a package of support to protect jobs and businesses, allows employers to claim for a cash grant of up to 80% of a furloughed employees wages, capped at £2,500 a month.
Millions of people across the UK are expected to benefit from the scheme, with businesses using it to ensure staff keep their jobs and are paid whilst many high street businesses are closed. HMRC’s easy to use portal has a step by step application process and up to 5,000 staff will be manning phone lines and webchat services to ensure any questions can be answered.
Speaking about the importance of the scheme, Mark said:
“I know that many residents have been very concerned about the impact the coronavirus outbreak will have on their livelihoods. That is why it was so important for the Government to bring forward this scheme swiftly and I am pleased that it is now live for employers to access this support.”
Mark continued:
“Since the outbreak began, I have been in regular contact with businesses throughout Rugby and Bulkington, including taking part in video calls with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Rugby Business Network. This is obviously a very challenging time for both businesses and their employees and I am listening to the concerns of local businesses, which I am raising with my colleagues in Government as a member and the interim Chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee.”
Mark concluded:
“Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic the Government has been clear that it will stand behind businesses and individuals, and the jobs retention scheme is just one part of that. However, to ensure that we can get through this together, I would urge everyone across my constituency to follow government guidelines to stay at home, to protect our NHS and save lives. If people do need help or advice, please do not hesitate to contact me and my team.”