The Prime Minister’s daily press conference on March 20 was a mixed bag. Most notably were sweeping demands for pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes, theatres, cinemas, clubs, leisure centres and gyms to close immediately for the forseeable future. That applies across the UK in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19—something many have been arguing for for some time. Perhaps most surprising though was Rishi Sunak’s announcement that the government will be allocating businesses up to £2,500.00 per employee to prevent redundancies during the crisis—huge news for small and medium-sized businesses.
What if I’m a freelancer or self employed?
There’s also some good news for those of us who are self employed or freelancing. The option has been announced to defer our income tax payments until January 2021. The Government is also putting processes in place that will entitle self-employed workers to sick pay.
How do I apply?
It’s early days—so it’s hard to say who’ll be eligible for these incentives—yet alone how to apply for them. For now, all we can do is wait. Preferably indoors. While you’re at it, wash your hands for good measure!
