Launch of Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund

From today, newly self-employed individuals who have not been able to access support through other schemes will be able to apply for a one-off grant of £2,000.

Following the launch of the Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture, Fiona Hyslop MSP, Highland Council has been asked to administer the fund for Newly Self-Employed businesses within the Highland Council area.

Councillor Margaret Davidson Leader of the Council said: “A one-off grant of £2,000 is available for newly self-employed individuals who are experiencing hardship as a result of losing income due to the coronavirus outbreak. This is a very welcome addition for those individuals who are not eligible for the UK Government’s Coronavirus Self-Employment Income Support Scheme or other forms of COVID-19 business support, and who are not in receipt of working age benefits.

“Newly self-employed individuals are encouraged to go to the Council’s Newly Self Employed webpage to determine whether they are eligible and to follow the guidance available on the website prior to submitting the online application form.  The scheme is open to people who became self-employed on/after 6th April but have not yet submitted a tax return including income from self-employment for 2018-19.

“The Scottish Government has given Highland Council an initial allocation of £812,433 to provide these grants.  Further funding may become available to meet demand but this is not assured and the Council will operate the grant scheme as long as funds last.  Completed applications will therefore be dealt with on a first come first served basis.  We understand the importance of these grants and will be working with the highest degree of urgency to process applications.”

 Other self-employed businesses who do not qualify for this funding can find information on support available at Sources of Funding or Business Coronavirus Support Finder