Both the Small Business Grant Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund were launched at the start of lockdown to support businesses affected by COVID-19.

To date, BCP Council has issued over £77.9 million in grant support through these schemes to 86 per cent of businesses in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole that it believes to be eligible from its records.

To be considered, a business must be ratepayer and as of the 11 March 2020 operate from premises under the rateable value limits for each scheme; under £15,000 for Small Business Grant Fund and under £51,000 for the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund.

Businesses must also be in receipt of either Small Business Rate Relief or part of the Expanded Retail Discount scheme. Grants which may be awarded are either £10,000 or £25,000 depending on rateable value.

Cllr Vikki Slade, leader of BCP Council, said, “We would hate for anyone to miss out on this support and urge all businesses who fit the criteria, but have not yet applied to check online and apply as soon as possible.

“We remind you that these are one off cash grants and not loans, whilst taxable there will be no need for you to pay back any of the funds.’’

Businesses can check their eligibility and apply via: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/covid19businesssupport