Half of eligible businesses claim Coronavirus business support grants

Charnwood Borough Council has been contacted by thousands of businesses.

More than 1,400 Charnwood businesses have so far shared £18.8 million of government funding as part of a support package to help local firms.

Charnwood Borough Council has distributed more than 1,480 government business grants to local companies to help during the coronavirus pandemic.

Since launching its online registration form, the authority has been contacted by thousands of businesses across the borough and is calling for more to step forward and claim.

The Council estimates 2,700 Charnwood businesses are eligible for the grants worth a combined total of £32million.

Cllr Tom Barkley, deputy leader of the council and lead member for finance, said: “During these difficult times we’re committed to supporting Charnwood businesses where we can.

“Already we have helped 1,484 businesses through the government’s Coronavirus business support grants, but know there are more eligible local organisations who need this funding.

“We wish this funding was available for everyone but are following national guidance on who can receive it, but I would like to reassure businesses that we are doing all we can to help those that are struggling.”