We will get through this
to £5000 for all pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 from April 1.
“The challenges we all face in the coming months are unprecedented, but we do know that the implications for businesses and the economy over the coming weeks and months will be immense.”
“The tourism and hospitality sectors are known to be facing immediate pressure, which is why the Scottish Government has responded in such a resolute fashion. This sector is our lifeblood. It needs to be nurtured in whichever way it can be.”
Charlene called on chamber members to review business continuity plans and emergency activation plans to help mitigate the impact coronavirus will have on critical business functions, products and services.
She continued: “Knowing what must be considered and ensuring there is sufficient cash flow to keep the business afloat in an environment where demand may be dropping off, compounded by staffing problems, could be the difference between a business surviving or failing.
“That is why, we maintain an open dialogue with the Scottish Government through the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to respond to expert advice and remain in contact with you, our members at all times. Communication will be vital.
“Together we can help lessen the impact of Covid-19 with strong advice, a common-sense approach to health and safety – the ‘regimes’ that have already been widely publicised. “
Garry Clark, development manager East of Scotland for the Federation of Small Businesses, said while the impact of the spread of coronavirus was being keenly felt by local businesses, many were stepping up to help their communities.
He cont i nu e d : “I have been speaking to a number of our members and obviously the impact of the coronavirus is being particularly hard felt by many businesses. “Retailers in West Lothian told me that footfall from customers was already lower than usual. The obvious exception to this is supermarkets and convenience stores who are selling out of many essential supplies like anti-bacterial soap and hand sanitiser and can’t restock quickly enough.
“On the flip side, there are some great stories emerging of small businesses who are going above and beyond for their customers and for vulnerable people in selfisolation, such as Taste Café and Far From the Madding Crowd bookshop in Linlithgow who are both now offering home delivery services to those who need it.
“Ad v i c e for our members can be found at https:// www. fsb. org. uk/ campaign/ covid19. html and we are also flagging up the advice from Scottish Enterprise and Business Gateway at https :// findbusinesssupport . gov. scot/ coronavirusadvice and highlighting the Scottish Government business advice line.
“It’s a rapidly changing situation but FSB is in daily contact with the Scottish and UK Governments and we are campaigning to make sure that the support that is being announced by these governments is available quickly and easily to businesses who need all the help they can get right now.
The Scottish Government’s Covid 19 - Business Support Helpline is 0300 303 0660. The helpline will be open MonFri 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Together we can help lessen the impact of Covid-19