Businesses across Warrington affected by the Coronavirus crisis will be able to claim up to £2,500 a month towards staff wages as part of the Government’s Job Retention Scheme, which went live today.
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 including Pret a Manger, Brewdog and Timpsons 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.
Commenting, Andy Carter, the Conservative MP for Warrington South, said: “Running a business is difficult enough at the best of times, so the news that the job retention scheme is now open for firms across Warrington to access is most welcome.
“We've put in place an unprecedented range of measures available to businesses to access, and I’d encourage those across Warrington that are struggling if they haven’t already to apply for the scheme. For a comprehensive list of schemes and advice please visit www.businesssupport.gov.uk.
“I would urge everyone across my constituency to follow government guidelines to stay at home, to protect our NHS and save lives and if people do need help or advice please do not hesitate to contact myself and my team.”
