Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is urging local businesses and those who are self employed to check if they are eligible to make a claim for government Covid-19 financial support.

With the closing date to register for the £10,000 Small business grant scheme and the £25,000 Hospitality, Tourism and Retail Sector grant scheme fast approaching, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is urging those who may be eligible for support to submit their registration before the Wednesday, May 20 deadline.

The Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Siobhán Currie, said: “Local businesses and those who are self employed are under extreme pressure and face unprecedented challenges during this time. I urge local businesses and self-employed workers to familiarise themselves with the different support packages available to them. Information on whether or not they are eligible to claim financial support under these government initiatives is available by checking out the relevant government websites. The deadline for receipt of claims is 20 May 2020 and it is vital that you do not miss out on any available assistance at this time.”

A number of Government schemes are also open to local businesses and the self-employed including loans, tax relief and cash grants.

A range of business support programmes are currently available through the Council to help local business grow and develop while a programme of webinars to help support local businesses as a result of Covid-19 will take place from Monday, May 18 on a range of topics including cash flow management and getting the most from social media for your business.

In addition, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Tourism and Economic Development team is available to provide advice, mentoring and signposting for businesses and those who are self employed in the district.

The Council is also asking local businesses to complete an online Covid-19 Business Impact Survey. Responses from the survey will be used by the Council to help it put in place business support programmes that address the needs of local business following Covid-19. The survey closes on Monday, May 18.

For further information on support available to local businesses or to complete the COVID-19 Business Impact Survey please visit Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s website at www.fermanaghomagh.com or contact a member of the Tourism and Economic Development Team; businesssupport@fermanaghomagh.com or telephone 0300 303 1777 (calls charged at local rate).