Recently self-employed to access new Aberdeenshire hardship fund
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A new grant hardship fund is now open for applications from individuals who recently became self-employed.
The £34 million fund launched today with Aberdeenshire being allocated around £1.8million.
Eligible applicants can apply for a £2000 grant.
The Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund from the Scottish Government is being administered by local authorities across the country, providing support to those who are recently self-employed, suffering financial hardship and are unable to access other grant support schemes.
These grants make up part of a £100 million Scottish Government fund to support the self-employed and SMEs announced on April 21.
Open to those who became self-employed on or after April 6, 2019 and who were actively trading up to March 2020, Aberdeenshire Council is now accepting applications.
The self-employed within Aberdeenshire will be required to meet various criteria and it is anticipated successful applicants will receive the funds within 10 days of applying.
Successful applicants may continue to work or take on other employment including voluntary work while applying for or in receipt of grants.
Councillor Jim Gifford, leader of Aberdeenshire Council said: "As our local and national economy suffers the impact of COVID-19, it is vital we support those across all types of employment.
"We have seen great success to-date through the Coronavirus Business Support Fund which we have also been entrusted to administer, with 2453 companies accessing more than £28.5 million as of today.
"The Newly Self-Employed Hardship Fund is another important support tool to help ease the pressure in some way.
"If you are self-employed please review the criteria on the Aberdeenshire Council website and submit your application in order to access this funding.
"I would like to once again remind you that our teams are here to support you and your business during this challenging time."
The application form together with full details of the required criteria can be found at: https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/business/business-covid-19/self-employed-hardship-fund-covid-19/
For an overview of all available business support please visit: www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/business/business-covid-19/
The purpose of this fund is to provide hardship relief to newly self-employed individuals who have not been able to access support through other schemes or have exhausted all other avenues for business support.
To be eligible applicants must meet all of the following criteria.
If applicants receive the grant they can continue to work or take on other employment including voluntary work.
