15 June 2021

This update covers:

  • England’s easing of Covid-19 restrictions delayed by 4 weeks.
  • Counterfeit banknotes.
  • Where to find grants to make your business that little bit greener.
  • Final week for online VAT Deferral.
  • EU Exit: Changes to right to work checks from 1 July 2021.
  • Covid-19 restrictions key dates across the four nations.

England's easing of Covid-19 restrictions delayed by 4 weeks

On Monday 14 June 2021, the Prime Minister announced that Step 4 of the roadmap (due to start on 21 June) has been delayed by four weeks.

This means Step 3 restrictions remain in place and you should continue to follow the current close contact service guidance.

It is expected that England will move to Step 4 on 19 July, though the data will be reviewed after 2 weeks in case the risks have reduced. Step 4 will be confirmed one week in advance.

We are calling for clarification regarding further financial support and will provide an update when we have more information.


The Bank of England has released some updated materials on spotting counterfeit notes

Counterfeiting directly funds organised crime. It harms the UK economy by creating losses for businesses, which ultimately affects the cost of things that we purchase. It likewise affects the pocket of any individual who gets a fake note, as they are worthless. If you report counterfeiting to the police, you are helping with investigations and alerting them to a problem in their area. This means that they can take action to protect your community.

Click here to learn how to check counterfeit banknotes


Environment: Where to find grants to make your business that little bit greener

Many businesses are looking to eco small business grants to help them fund environmental projects, adopt green technologies and become more sustainable.

Funding comes under the following categories and is often distributed by local authorities:

  • Renewable energy business grants
  • Sustainability grants
  • Energy efficiency grants
  • Sustainable innovation
  • Green jobs

Click here to find out what eco grants are available in your area


Final week for online VAT Deferral

Businesses that deferred VAT payments between 20 March and 30 June 2020 have until 21 June 2021 to join the new online payment scheme to spread the cost for their deferred VAT.

The New Payment Scheme enables you:

  • Pay your deferred VAT in equal instalments, interest free
  • Choose the number of instalments, from 2 to 11 (depending on when you join)

Click here to find out more


EU Exit: Changes to right to work checks from 1 July 2021

Employers must check that all job applicants have the right to work in the UK before employing them, to avoid being liable for a civil penalty. From 1 July 2021, employers will no longer be able to accept the passports or ID cards of EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens as valid proof of right to work.

Click here for details

Reminder that all currently employed EU, EEA or Swiss staff should take steps now to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme so that they can continue living and working in the UK after 30 June 2021. How to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

 

Read our four nations FAQs which include links to the latest government guidance that must be followed.

England: Hair and beauty businesses, including mobile, are now allowed to open under government Coronavirus guidelines. Saunas and steam rooms are allowed to open under step 3 of the roadmap which started on 17 May 2021. Find out more on the government website.

Wales: Hair and beauty businesses, including mobile, are now allowed to open under government Coronavirus guidelines.

Scotland: Hair and beauty businesses, including mobile, are now allowed to open under government Coronavirus guidelines.

Northern Ireland: Hair and beauty businesses, including mobile, are now allowed to open under government Coronavirus guidelines.
Coronavirus: Business closures and restrictions in Northern Ireland


See all updates