Scottish Government Daily Update 19th March 2021

This update from the Scottish Government directs businesses to the most up to date information on COVID-19 as we move forward with our economic response.

The Find Business Support website has information on all the support available to businesses that have been affected by COVID-19 restrictions. We would encourage businesses to check the website for more information on what support they are eligible for and how they can apply.

The UK has now left the European Union, this update will highlight developments around Brexit that will be of particular interest to businesses.

For the most up-to-date Brexit advice and support visit the Prepare for Brexit website.

Today’s media briefing was led by Health Secretary Jeane Freeman who said that the expectation that all adults in Scotland would be offered a first dose of the vaccine by the end of July remains - despite the supply issues that are expected next month.

You can read her full speech here.

A further £70 million for the Young Person’s Guarantee has been announced by Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop.  The investment will see more jobs, internships, apprenticeships, training and volunteering opportunities being made available for young people as Scotland emerges from lockdown in the coming months.

 £2.75 million is being invested to support rural tourism in Scotland.  Tourism Secretary Fergus Ewing says the funding will help prepare for the sector reopening later in the year.   The fund will help provide more seasonal rangers, temporary toilets, car parking and campervan facilities.  Local authorities and community organisations can apply for grants of up to £75,000 per site, which will be administered through NatureScot’s Better Places Fund Round 2

This month’s Economic Brief has been published providing an update on the latest economic data during a period in which Scotland and the UK have been in lockdown restrictions.

The Scottish Government’s timetable for easing restrictions has been published. The timetable sets out how and when we plan to lift the current coronavirus restrictions over the coming weeks and months.

Safer workplace guidance is released on a sectoral basis and can be found here.

Grants are available for businesses that are required by law to close or to significantly change operations as a result of COVID-19 restrictions. Find out who is eligible and how to apply here.

The NHS Inform coronavirus webpage is the fastest way for people to get the latest health advice and information.

We hope that you will find this useful and share with your networks where appropriate.