Eligible businesses in Allerdale most impacted by the Omicron variant can now apply for government grant support from this week onwards.

The scheme will provide support to hospitality, leisure and accommodation businesses in recognition of the impact the rise of the Omicron variant has had on them.

The support will be a one-off grant, available for businesses that were on the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) business ratings list on 30th December only.

Councillor Mike Johnson, Leader of the Council, said: "I’m really pleased that we are able to offer this grant using funding from the government to help Allerdale businesses who have been affected by the Omicron variant. Whilst businesses have not been forced to close, many have still been impacted by the virus and so I’d encourage every eligible business to make their application ahead of the deadline in February."

Grants will be given based on the rateable value of the business, the higher this is the more the business will receive.

There are three types of businesses eligible for the grants including those in the hospitality sector, leisure businesses and accommodation providers.

The council’s website has full details of the eligibility criteria, including information on those businesses that are not able to apply.

For more information please visit: https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-grants-claims/.