For the first time in history, the UK government is going to step in and help pay people’s wages paying grants to support as many jobs as necessary.

Any employer in the country large, small, charitable or for profit who promises to retain their staff, will be able to apply for a grant from HMRC to cover most of the wages of people who are not working but are kept on payroll, rather than being laid off.

Grants will cover 80 per cent of the salary of retained workers up to a total of £2,500 a month which is above the average income. The cost of wages will be backdated to 1 March and will be open initially for at least three months and the UK Government will extend the scheme for longer if necessary. The UK Government is making a historic intervention by prioritising worker’s pay and protecting jobs.

This news comes as the Scottish Government is writing to 200,000 vulnerable Scots with the advice to self-isolate. This action, that is being taken by both the UK and Scottish government, advises those with extreme health vulnerabilities to isolate for 12 weeks. We must stand with both of Scotland’s governments in taking this action during this challenging time. We must protect those most vulnerable and at risk across the country but it is on us all to stop the spread of this virus by following the guidance in place.

Scotland’s two governments are working together to get us through this crisis.

Medical advice for the public can be found at www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus and www.gov.uk/coronavirus

A hotline has been set up for businesses affected. They can call 0300 303 0660 for advice and support.

Everyone needs to work together to get through this so it’s vital people follow the latest official guidance.

Cllr Alastair Redman