LOCAL BUSINESSES URGED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GRANTS

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South Scotland MSP Joan McAlpine has urged businesses in Dumfries and Galloway to take advantage of grant support being offered during the corona crisis by the Scottish and UK Governments – but she said more must be done to help the self-employed.

The SNP MSP says local businesses that qualify for the small business bonus scheme or rural relief are eligible for a cash grant from the Scottish Government of £10,000 while those in the leisure, retail and hospitality sectors who have property with a rateable value of between £18k and £51k can apply for a £25k grant.

Commenting, Ms McAlpine says,
“If your business is in the qualifying groups and you want to apply for a grant, call the Dumfries and Galloway Council helpline number on 01387 260280 or email them at SupportDG@dumgal.gov.uk <mailto:SupportDG@dumgal.gov.uk>.

“There are also extensive rebates and reliefs for non-domestic rates. The helpline for this is 01387 260085 or email ndr@dumgal.gov.uk <mailto:ndr@dumgal.gov.uk>.
“The UK Government has also made soft loans available as well as launching the job retention scheme to pay 80% of employees’ wages. Details of this have still to be announced but a Scottish Enterprise helpline has been launched for all businesses by the Scottish Government. Their number is 0300 303 0660 and website is www.findbusinesssupport.gov.scot <www.findbusinesssupport.gov.scot/>.

“These are challenging times for businesses everywhere, but please be assured, we’re doing all we can to help. We’re continuing to press the UK Government for more help for self-employed people too. Hopefully we’ll hear some good news about this shortly.