Businesses should look for support to help them through the Coronavirus crisis. That was the message from Roger Pollen, Head of External Affairs at the Federation of Small Business Northern Ireland (FSB NI) as he addressed the measures Government have put in place to support those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said: “This is an unprecedented time for small businesses and self-employed people as they seek to navigate the uncertainty and economic damage caused by the necessary response to Covid-19. Many public facing businesses will have shut their doors, or significantly adapted their trading practices, such as going to delivery only. For non-public facing businesses, many are seeking further clarity at the moment, and will have adapted their production lines to ensure appropriate social distancing is in place for the safety of staff, customers and the general public.
“We would urge businesses to continue to follow relevant official guidance and look out for support which may help them keep the business going through this crisis. To date there have been announcements to support the income of self-employed people, and support for employees incomes where businesses have had to close – these will apply UK wide.”
Mr Pollen added: “The Northern Ireland Executive has also announced a three months rate holiday for all businesses, as well as grant funding to help with cashflow issues. The FSB Coronavirus hub contains a wealth of information, and we would also recommend businesses look at the NI Business Info page for details of support.
“FSB continues to lobby government, both at Stormont and Westminster, to ensure small businesses have the necessary support to get them through this crisis, so they can survive and thrive on the other side.”
For more information and advice visit the FSB Coronavirus hub or NI Business Info.
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