New year, new lockdown.
That’s the reality for Scots at the start of 2021 as the nation battles a surge in coronavirus cases.
In a statement to the Scottish Parliament yesterday (January 4), First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she knew it was one “no one wanted to hear” but called for understanding as the virus transmission rate picks up pace.
“It’s no exaggeration to say that I am more concerned about the situation we face now than I have been anytime since March last year,” she admitted before unveiling new restrictions in a bid to tackle the swell.
As of today, the stay at home message becomes law and people face limitations like those from the lockdown of March 2020. Scots will only be allowed to leave home for exercise – of which frequency is unlimited – work if unable to do so at home, or if they have caring duties.
Those in the shielding category should work from home if they can and avoid going to work if they can’t, whilst businesses are being urged to look at operations to facilitate working from home for staff once again.
What’s more, schools and nurseries will close their doors until at least February for the majority of students except those deemed to be vulnerable or children of key workers.
While lockdown understandably has health, social and mental impacts, it’s important not to lose sight of the financial implications and most importantly the support you could be entitled to.
Know your rights
If you’re struggling financially it’s important to know what you’re entitled to. Whether it’s being aware of how much Statutory Sick Pay you could claim or just trying to understand what it means to be furloughed, knowing where you stand is vital.
Our Coronavirus Hub is your go-to guide for the latest financial news from the pandemic and advice about how to find support should you need it.
Check out some of the biggest topics we’ve covered at a glance below:
Furlough
The furlough scheme has been extended until the end of April meaning the government will continue to contribute 80% towards wages. The scheme, which according to the Treasury has protected 9.6 million jobs across the UK, pays 80% of a person’s usual salary for hours not worked up to £2,500 per month.
Self-employment Income Support Scheme
Additional support is in place for those who work for themselves through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme. The government announced a new grant that will cover November – January period calculated at 80% of average trading profits of up to £7,500.
Business support
The Chancellor Rishi Sunak has unveiled new grants to support businesses in retail, hospitality and leisure. Worth up to £9,000 per property the grants hope to keep businesses afloat until spring. The help is in addition to business rates relief and the furlough scheme.
Mr Sunak also revealed a further £594 million for local authorities and devolved administrations to aid businesses not eligible for the grants.
Firms do not have to pay the grant money back.
Sick pay
You could be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if you’re unable to work due to COVID-19.
You can get £95.85 per week Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if you’re too ill to work. It’s paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks.
You could get SSP if you’re self-isolating, if you live or work in an area with restrictions in place (local or national) including advice to ‘shield’. You could also be entitled if you’ve been advised to shield because you’re at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus
Find full guidance here.
Benefits
It’s important to ensure that you receive all the benefits you may be entitled to during the pandemic. Whether it’s making sure you get paid SSP or are applying for Universal Credit for financial aid, it’s vital to know what you’re entitled to. Check out our previous blog detailing national guidance and useful resources here.
Free debt advice is available
If you’re concerned about debt and your finances during the coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to remember you’re not alone.
