Both Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City councils are liaising closely with the UK and Scottish Governments and will provide clear and concise information for all businesses to ensure timely access to accurate information about all available support. Whilst assurances on the timeframe and possible developments of this crisis cannot be offered, we can assure businesses and employers that we recognise the pressing need for guidance and support mechanisms.
Together with partner organisations, both local authorities will work, as far as is practically possible, to lessen the negative impact that is being felt from the effects of COVID-19. We appreciate that this is a very difficult time for your business and are here to support you.
Find Business Support Coronavirus advice for businesses in Scotland. Updated daily.
Business Support Finder A webtool to enable businesses and those who are self-employed to quickly identify the support available to them by filling out a brief online questionnaire. Start now.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme The scheme is open to all UK employers that had created and started a PAYE payroll scheme on 19 March 2020 (extended from the original date of 28 February 2020).
*Please note: This scheme is not being administered by local authorities. Employers will need to apply directly to HMRC via the online portal.
Support for Self-Employed For information on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme and to apply to the Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund click here. Other Scottish Government support Find out about the various national support initiatives that are available. Click here.
Tax Helpline If you are concerned about being able to pay your tax due to COVID-19, call HMRC’s dedicated helpline on 0800 015 9559. Lines are open from Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm and on Saturday, 8am to 4pm.
Filing Accounts with Companies House Businesses will be given an additional 3 months to file accounts with Companies House to help companies avoid penalties as they deal with the impact of COVID-19.
Business Loans A number of business loans have been made available to support businesses through these challenging times. Find out more.
The Skills Toolkit Free digital and numeracy courses to build your skills. Guidance for UK Businesses Trading Internationally This is new guidance for UK businesses who are trading internationally. Find out more about the support.
Insurance The Association of British Insurers have issued a statement on business insurance cover here and have a COVID-19 Q&A here which includes business insurance, trade credit, income protection and pensions and investments.
Business Water Bills A package of measures worth £60 million has been agreed between the Scottish Government and the water industry to help businesses facing difficulties with water charges.
