Coronavirus: Covid-19
Message from our Chief Executive
During these uncertain and worrying times we want our members to know that we are here for you and are determined to provide the most up to date information and support via our website, social media channels, weekly COVID-19 conference calls and direct communication with our team members.
Ros Morgan
Chief Executive
I am proud of the fact that we have already made headway on our campaigning and lobbying towards government in support of business rates as well as other key asks. We are engaging daily and partnering with wider West End and National bodies to ensure we bring our suggestions and solutions forward in how we can manage and come out of this stronger together.
On behalf of all of us here we wish you all the best and hope that you, your family and friends stay safe.
Latest updates
02.25.21
Government Roadmap for Re-opening Announced 22 Feb
The first stage of easing will be split into two parts: STEP... Read more
01.04.21
National Lockdown Announced
Statistics on COVID-19 cases: The new variant of the virus is thought... Read more 09.30.20
Worst-case COVID-19 scenario could cause a near-total wipe-out of the West End’s cultural sector
A new economic analysis shows that the impact of COVID-19 could see... Read more
09.21.20
My West End Campaign
In order to drive footfall to the West End at this critically... Read moreKey Government Advice
For the most up-to-date and reliable information, please follow the links below for the latest Government updates and advice:
News Bulletins
With more stringent measures now in place to slow the spread of COVID-19, we remain focused on ensuring public safety and an economically resilient West End.
General Business Support & Guidance
Government Business Support Website
Coronavirus (COVID‑19) support is available to employers and the self-employed, including sole traders and limited company directors. You may be eligible for loans, tax relief and cash grants, whether your business is open or closed.
Use this business support finder to see what support is available for you and your business.
Coronavirus Business Grants
Our local authority, Westminster City Council, is administering two non-discretionary grant schemes and to make payments to businesses from two funding envelopes on a discretionary basis.
To find out if your business is eligible and to apply, click here.
Working Safely During Coronavirus
Find out how to make your workplace COVID-secure. Government has published 14 guides covering a range of different types of work. To access the guidance, click here.
Furlough Scheme Extension
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended until 30 April 2020. If you’ve put an employee on furlough, you can claim for some of your employee’s wages for a longer period. Claims for furlough days in December 2020 must be made by 14 January 2021. View the latest updates on the UK Government website.
HMRC Business Support Helpline
The Government has opened a new HMRC Business Support Helpline: 0800 024 1222
Westminster City Council advice and guidance for business, residents & volunteering
For up to date advice and news from Westminster City Council, please visit the COVID-19 hub here.
Sector Specific Support & Guidance
The guidance has been updated with some information for Step 3 (no earlier than 17 May) of the roadmap and contains steps to protect yourself, your staff and your customers during coronavirus. Business should make sure that they are familiar with the UK government guidance to ensure that they make their business safe during coronavirus.
For guidance for people who work in or run restaurants, pubs, bars, cafes or takeaways, click here.
For guidance for people who work in or run hotels and other guest accommodation, click here.
For guidance for people who work in or run offices, contact centres and similar indoor environments, click here.
FAQs
We’ve had a number of queries come through from members with regards to operations, lobbying and general communications. We will continue to update this section on a regular basis.
Both our City Inspectors and security team continue to patrol the area and we are also working closely with the Met Police. This will enable the team to ensure the continued safety and security of employees where businesses are operating with a skeleton staff and to monitor buildings that have been temporarily closed. If you have any particular security concerns, please contact Robin Hibbert, Director of Company Operations Robin.hibbert@heartoflondonbid.co.uk
We have a map available here, which represents businesses reopening in the area. If your business is not listed, please contact Matt Harris matt.harris@heartoflondonbid.co.uk
Local authorities have been tasked with administering two non-discretionary grant schemes and to make payments to businesses from two funding envelopes on a discretionary basis. You may therefore visit the Westminster City Council site to check if your business is eligible and to apply.
Advocacy and lobbying – matt.arnold@heartoflondonbid.co.uk
Operations – robin.hibbert@heartoflondonbid.co.uk
If you would like to sign up to our mailing list, please contact matt.harris@heartoflondonbid.co.uk.
Please also follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for further updates.
