The Government announced earlier in March that all businesses that received full Small Business Rate Relief would qualify for a £10,000 grant (non-repayable). There is now more news on this scheme, and for Folkestone and Hythe businesses a form to complete to claim the payment.

Please note that I will link ONLY to the Folkestone and Hythe District Council website here for security to reassure you I'm not operating a scam.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council are granting free parking permits for registered carers and pharmacists - on top of those already provided for NHS staff and doctors.

Free permits will also be issued to those involved in the volunteer community support hubs set up by Folkestone & Hythe District Council.

We would like to update you on Rising Sun's response to the Covid-19 outbreak. This will be reviewed as the situation progresses and government guidelines develop.

We are very concerned that self-isolation and social distancing restrictions will present increasing challenges and risks for survivors of domestic abuse and their families. We anticipate there will be increased household tension and domestic violence due to forced coexistence, economic stress, and fears about the virus.

Dear Business Owner

Please see further information and links relating to government announcements over the last couple of days on our https://folkestone.works/coronavirus-business-updates/ website. These include:

• Grants for businesses in Folkestone & Hythe District - to access grants some details are required by the Business Rates Team to make these payments. Please see the link below to the council's corporate website to provide this information on an electronic form https://www.folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/business-grant-fund
• Self-employment Income Support Scheme - the government yesterday announced further support for the self-employed individuals (including members of partnerships) who have lost income due to coronavirus (COVID-19).
• Guidance for UK businesses trading internationally - advice is for UK businesses that export or deliver goods and services abroad and have been impacted by the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
• COVID-19: guidance for staff in the transport sector - Updated 26 March 2020 - guidance to assist transport settings in addressing coronavirus (COVID-19).

The following update, regarding the Rainbow Centre, has been sent out by John Burgess, the Manager of the Homeless Support Service to various stakeholders:

"Please note that the Homeless Support Service is implementing some changes in response to the Coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak.

We are delighted to hear that Folkestone and Hythe District Council have placed those individuals who we know to be rough sleeping, into emergency accommodation.