In May, the Government announced that, following a period of closure due to the lockdown and coronavirus pandemic, all non-essential retail could to return to the High Street.
 
This is good news for our business community and our local economy, but we understand this is a significant step and we want to help ensure that this transition is as safe and smooth as it can be.
 
With this in mind; Harborough District Council has produced a simple information sheet with essential information to help your business reopen safely.  
 
It includes information about social distancing, queuing, payments, staffing, hygiene, fire safety and more.
 
The Government has also provided guidance to help you plan your return to the High Street https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/shops-and-branches
 
Please take the time to read this guidance.
 
We are looking forward to you returning to the High Street and the successful re-opening of your shop. If you have any questions or concerns please contact us by emailing business@harborough.gov.uk

Along with our information sheet, you can find more information about Health and Safety, Licensing and much more on the Harborough District Council website.

The Local Authority Discretionary Grants for Businesses, was announced on 1 May 2020, with guidance issued to councils on 13 May and 23 May 2020.

Harborough District Council has developed a policy in line with Government requirements.

Similarly to previous grant schemes, this will be an online application process, with the 2 week application window beginning Wednesday 3rd June until Wednesday 17 June 2020.

Find out more about the application process, eligibility criteria and the grants to businesses below.

Enhancing Productivity through the Online Office

Did you know, your business, regardless of size, can take advantage of online suites to streamline processes and improve productivity?

The businesses that we work with are having to work remotely out of necessity currently. Online productivity suites (you may of heard of Microsoft 365, Google's G Suite or open source alternatives) can support you to automate office tasks and consolidate word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, email, video meetings and social media tools to enhance the ways in which employees can collaborate.

Depending on requirement, incorporating productivity software takes some digital skill. Skills Support for the Workforce delivers funded, tailored skills support to small to medium sized businesses in 16 regions across England.