Southwark Council says its new £2 million hardship fund for small businesses ineligible for government support is the first of its kind from any local authority.
The fund is giving grants of £2,000, £5,000 or £10,000 to businesses who aren’t covered by the national small business grant; retail, leisure and hospitality grant, or self-employment income support.
Cllr Stephanie Cryan, cabinet member for jobs, business and innovation, said: “We are making every effort to support our fantastic local businesses but the fact remains that many are still likely to fall through the cracks in terms of financial support, and we want to make sure they are able to carry on now and beyond this crisis.
“Many of them don’t have the safety net of the businesses which the government is offering financial support to, including many of Southwark’s smallest, locally run businesses.
“I would ask the government to recognise this, and make the investment in them via councils, so we can get the help to where it’s needed. I wish all of our local traders the very best, and I want them to know we’re thinking of them too.”
To apply visit www.southwark.gov.uk/businesshardshipfund