FAQs: How will COVID-19 affect utilities? (MAR 27 UPDATE)

CAN WE GET GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE?

Yes. there are various targeted economic measures, as announced by the UK / Scots Gov this week.

• There is a £10k grant for small businesses and £25k Grant for some of the hospitality and leisure industries that needs to be applied for by Monday 31^st March or you will miss it!

• There is a Furlough of staff scheme where you can get up to 80% of salaries covered with you making up the difference with a HMRC portal due to open up for applications April 1^st.

• There is a soft business interruption loan for small businesses through The British Bank

Links are below, and we advise you to review with urgency your own organisation’s eligibility, as support levels will vary. You can review the government’s guidance on business support here.

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/financial-support-for-businesses-during-coronavirus-covid-19

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-for-wage-costs-through-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme 

https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/ourpartners/coronavirus-business-interruption-loan-scheme-cbils/for-businesses-and-advisors/

CAN WE GET A PAYMENT HOLIDAY FROM OUR UTILITY SUPPLIERS?

The Boxfish team have been working hard on behalf of our clients and  we have spoken with all suppliers this week and urge you to email  us either to your normal contact or  at Hello@weareboxfish.com  your contact details and concerns and we will call you to  assist by  advising feedback from your particular supplier .

CAN WE STOP OUR DIRECT DEBITS FOR BILL PAYMENTS?

No. You must keep your payments and payment plans up to date, as

failure to do so may affect the ability to negotiate with suppliers later

when needed. We strongly advise you contact us as stated above.

WHY CAN’T WE GET THROUGH TO SUPPLIERS ON THE PHONE?

Suppliers are still operating but call lines are with a 3hour waiting time is some cases as they are inundated with an unprecedented level of calls. This means in the short term they will be Overwhelmed . We have spoken to them and can advise you on your businesses concerns if you email us at Hello@weareboxfish