Further financial support for businesses affected by national restrictions

Businesses that have been forced to close during the current period of national restrictions, but were not eligible for the Local Restrictions Support Grant, can now apply for a discretionary grant – the Additional Restrictions Grant – and receive a one-off payment.

The grant is also aimed at businesses that have been able to stay open, but are experiencing a significant financial impact due to the national restrictions.

Norwich City Council has already paid out over 300 Local Restrictions Support grants, however not all businesses would have met the criteria to apply, so this new grant could apply to them.

This new grant could help businesses such as those which supply the retail, hospitality, leisure or events sector. They may still be open, but be experiencing a big drop in income due to reduced demand for their services.

Others potentially eligible would be those businesses that do not have a business rates assessment, which would also include people who may be self-employed, such as a hairdresser that rents a chair in a salon.

Councillor Alan Waters, leader of Norwich City Council, said: “I’m really pleased to be able to announce that applications are open for this new grant scheme, which I hope will go some way to help businesses during his incredibly difficult time.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have given out over £40.5m in grant funding to support Norwich businesses, but we can all do our bit to support them. Why not buy local this Christmas? Many shops, including some Norwich Market stalls, are now operating online and will deliver to your doorstep.”