More than £1million funding issued to small businesses

Medway Council has issued £1,225,925 funding to 226 small businesses across Medway as part of a scheme to further support the economy during the coronavirus pandemic.

The government introduced a discretionary grant fund for small businesses which are experiencing difficulties.

The discretionary grant fund is only for businesses with fewer than 50 employees which have not benefitted from other government COVID-19 support schemes, excluding the coronavirus job retention scheme (furlough) and the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS). Businesses have received payments of up to £8,161 and the council has prioritised the funding based on the government guidance.

Medway Council will be issuing a further £600,000 in discretionary grant funding to small business and individuals who are self-employed, in due course.

Cllr Alan Jarrett, Leader of Medway Council, said: “We are committed to helping support local businesses and I am pleased that there are a number of government grant schemes available to support businesses and the self-employed during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. We understand that some businesses may be facing financial difficulties and I am pleased that we have distributed more than £1million to our small businesses. I would encourage businesses to visit our website to find out more about the support that is available to them.”

For more information on the support available to businesses during the pandemic visit www.medway.gov.uk/coronavirusbusinesses