Time running out to apply for a discretionary grant

Time is running out for charities and small or micro businesses across Bath & North East Somerset which have been affected by coronavirus to apply for a discretionary grant.

Discretionary grants are available for organisations not eligible for the business grants scheme set up in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, those wanting to be considered for a discretionary grant must register by Wednesday 10 June.

The fund offers support to:

• Charities and community organisations who receive mandatory charitable business rates relief that otherwise would have been eligible for small business rates relief, or rural rate relief AND are not eligible under the existing grant schemes.
• Small and micro businesses directly impacted by COVID-19 who also have relatively high ongoing fixed building-related costs such as rent, service charges and Council Tax or Occupy a property, or part of a property, with a rateable value or annual rent or annual mortgage payments below £51,000

Under the guidance set by the government, the following businesses will be prioritised for the discretionary funding:

• Shared or flexible workspaces - small businesses that have exclusive use of a unit within a shared or flexible workspace, but don't have their own business rates assessment (for example, units in offices, industrial parks, science parks and incubators)
• Market or Street Traders - with a fixed pitch and a street trading licence, or lease agreement if in a covered market
• Bed & Breakfasts and guest houses - where the business owner lives on site, holds a valid Food Safety registration with the council and is paying Council Tax rather than business rates.

The council will have discretion over how it prioritises funding applications.This will be based on local economic need and will be subject to the availability of funding. Limited discretion is also available to consider a small number of businesses who meet the eligible business criteria, but don't fall into the priority categories.  

Councillor Richard Samuel, cabinet member for Resources said: “I’d urge organisations directly impacted by the pandemic which weren’t eligible for a business grant, to apply for a discretionary grant. However, time is tight and if we don’t receive your application by Wednesday 10 June you’ll miss out on the opportunity for financial support. These grants could make a big difference to local businesses during this difficult time so we will consider all applications very carefully to ensure we do our very best for Bath & North East Somerset.”

For more details about the fund, eligibility and the registration process visit: https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/register-discretionary-fund