“TIME is running out for businesses to get grants they are entitled to”, warns the council’s workstream lead for revenues and benefits.

Slough Borough Council (SBC) is calling for businesses who could qualify for the government’s coronavirus financial aid, but have not claimed it, to contact them by August 28.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced one-off loans of £10,000-£25,000 for local authorities to distribute to businesses who had to close their doors during lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The government allocated SBC nearly £18 million where the council claims 93 per cent of the grants has been distributed – leaving only approximately 175 Slough business which could qualify.

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These grants include the small business grants fund and the retail, hospitality, and leisure grants fund.

The government announced the grants are due to cease on August 28 where SBC is calling for qualifying local organisations to respond or contact the team administrating the grants as soon as possible.

Jackie Adams, workstream lead for revenues and benefits, said the businesses who are entitled to the government money and have not yet applied are the ones who may need it the most as they could be smaller outfits.

She said: “Since March, our small team has overseen the administration of 1,173 grants to businesses in Slough totalling more than £16.7 million.

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“These grants have been vital to our local economy by helping ensure the survival of small businesses including shops, cafes, hotels, restaurants and leisure facilities.

“We are in the final stages of this programme and the vast majority of eligible businesses have now claimed grants.

“If you think that you are eligible – but have not yet been in touch with us about this – please do so as soon as possible.

“Subject to checks businesses will receive the grant payment within 10 days of contacting us.”

There is more information about the grant here: https://www.slough.gov.uk/business/finance-funding-and-grants/coronavirus-and-business-rates.aspx