Eligible businesses in Allerdale that are affected by the government’s actions to stem the spread of coronavirus, can now apply for financial support through a cash grant scheme.

There are two grants available both of which are being administered by Allerdale council.

The first provides all businesses in receipt of small business rate relief of rural rate relief with a grant of £10,000. The maximum rateable value limit is £15,000.

The second scheme provides support for businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

These are, £10,000 for businesses with property with a rateable value of up to £15,000, which do not receive small business rate relief or rural rate relief, £25,000 for businesses with property with a rateable value between £15,001 and £50,999.

Only one grant is payable per business property.

The council is doing everything to provide the funding to eligible businesses as soon as possible.

Therefore, any business that meets the criteria of the grant schemes and currently pays business rates via direct debit, will receive the grant directly into their named bank account. The business owner does not need to apply for the grant as the council already has enough information to provide it direct.

All other eligible businesses need to apply for the grant using the online application form. More information and links to the form can be found at: https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-grants-claims/. Anyone with any queries, should speak to a customer service advisor on 0303 123 1702.

A council spokesman said: “While the actions taken by the government are necessary to combat the spread of coronavirus, we would encourage members of the business community who are being hit financially, and are eligible for the grants, to apply. We have a dedicated team who are doing everything they possibly can to ensure this money gets paid out as soon as possible.”

These grants are just some of a range of initiatives announced recently by the government to help businesses. More information on all the help available can be found at: https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-information-and-advice-businesses/.