Sunak Rolls Out Extra Cash to Shield Businesses and Self-Employed
Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled fresh support yesterday to help self-employed workers and businesses caught in Tier 2 and Tier 3 COVID restrictions. The move aims to save jobs and protect livelihoods across the board.
Gosport Braces as Cases Rise
Gosport remains at a ‘medium’ COVID alert level, but with cases on the rise in Hampshire, Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage welcomed the announcement. She’s been in steady contact with local firms worried about what tougher restrictions might mean.
What’s New in the Support Package?
- Open Job Support Scheme beefed up: Employees working at least 20% of their hours will keep 73% of their pay. Employers’ share drops to just 5%, while the government forks out at least 62% for hours not worked.
- Self-Employment Support Scheme doubled: More than 2,600 Gosport residents on this scheme will see grants jump from 20% to 40%, capped at £3,750. From February to April, all self-employed workers who stopped trading or took a big hit will qualify, regardless of tier.
- New cash grants for hospitality and leisure: Gosport and Fareham councils will get fresh funds. Eligible businesses could bag up to £2,100 for every month spent in a high alert tier.
Local Voices Back the Boost
“Many businesses in Gosport, especially in hospitality, have been hit hard by this pandemic and worry about future restrictions,” said Caroline Dinenage. “These measures are crucial to protecting jobs across Gosport, Hill Head, Stubbington, and Lee-on-the-Solent if the situation worsens.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak added: “I’ve always said we must be ready to adapt our financial support as the situation evolves, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. This means more people get help and more jobs are saved. I know new restrictions worry many, but I hope this support helps the country pull together in the months ahead.”
