28 May 2020

This update covers:

  • What if salons and barbershops don’t want to open when lockdown is eased?
  • Employer contributions to furlough payments not yet confirmed
  • Government funding to help high streets in England
  • Business gateway to help Scottish businesses

What if salons and barbershops don’t want to reopen at first?

Some NHBF Members have expressed concerns about reopening, even when the government says they can. They are asking if they can continue to claim under the furlough scheme if they don’t reopen straightaway.

The government has not yet provided a definite answer to this. We will let you know as soon as we hear anything.

Furlough scheme: employer contributions

We understand that employers will be expected to make a contribution to their employees’ furlough payments from August. However, the government has not yet announced any details about this. Again, we will let you know as soon as we hear anything.

Government funding to help high streets in England

The government has announced a new £50 million fund for councils in England to support their local high streets in getting safely back to business. Find out more about the fund.

Scotland: Business Gateway

Business Gateway aims to help Scottish businesses get through the coronavirus pandemic. Experienced advisors are working with thousands of businesses while online support, guides and the latest news on funding and grants can also be accessed. Find out more.

See all updates