All business has been affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst podiatrists have been able to remain open, the number of patients you have been able to see has diminished, and therefore many members have been hit financially as well as emotionally.
We have gathered together business support information that members in independent practice may find useful. Please be aware that there may also be local schemes and assistance: do check with your local council for specific information on your area.
We suggest members review these websites and apply for any assistance in a timely manner as these schemes may be stopped or have strict time frames, depending on how long restrictions continue.
Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, information on all of the business support schemes and their eligibility criteria is available on nibusinessinfo.co.uk at Coronavirus updates: Support for your business. Please note some of these have time restrictions but it hoped further extensions may be brought in whilst restrictions are in place.
England
In England you can find out about the financial support you may be entitled to via gov.uk at Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19). This includes rates relief, loans and grants. Please be aware these may be time-limited.
There are generic small business grants which may be available to you at any time. This useful article, A guide to small business grants in the UK and how to apply, discusses them.
Scotland
In Scotland you can find information about funding and support during the pandemic at FindBusinessSupport.gov.uk
Scottish Enterprise also has information on grants and support - see Funding for business affected by coronavirus.
Wales
In Wales, the Business Wales hub has information including Support for the self-employed which includes information about the Self-employment income support scheme grant extension. Another grant is due to be announced in March.