The UK Government has this week updated the guidance for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, and HMRC have begun contacting those eligible for the scheme, which will provide applicants with 80% of their average monthly trading profits, to be capped at £7,500, and which will be paid in a single instalment to cover 3 months. For more information visit the UK Government pages here and if you get into any difficulty, please contact my office for support.
On Monday we remembered and honoured all the firefighters who have died to save others on International Firefighters’ Day. Our firefighters do an incredible job in such difficult circumstances and we should celebrate their brilliance and their dedication to their work. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my personal thanks for all that you do to keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities safe.
As lockdown continues, I know the days can seem long and repetitive – particularly for furloughed workers, or those shielding. It’s important that we look after both our physical and mental health during this difficult time – why not take a look at some of the courses available online to keep you occupied and give you a sense of accomplishment? There are so many free online courses available for you to learn something new and keep your brain active. See an extensive list of online learning providers at Working Wales, where you can also speak to advisers about the options available for you.
On Friday, we mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. This was certainly not the remembrance day that we would have envisioned a few months ago, but it still gives us the opportunity to reflect on one of the most difficult and inspiring moments of our history. The whole country pulled together to contribute to the war effort in whatever way they could, whether that meant enlisting, working in the fields, or taking in evacuees from the cities. We remember their sacrifice today and honour their memory by continuing to stand up for tolerance against racism and fascism. There are few still alive from this generation and its so important to hear their stories and learn from them first hand whilst we still can.
With the bank holiday weekend upon us and beautiful weather predicted once again, the Welsh Government have written an open letter to the people of Wales. The message is clear: please avoid all non-essential travel to protect yourselves and others and if you need to go out, please remember to remain two metres apart at all times. We are all missing our friends and families and we all want to make the best of the fine weather, but for the safety of ourselves and other people, we must remain within our homes as much as possible. I hope you get a chance to enjoy the sunshine in your garden or on your walk, and to spend some time with your loved ones whether that’s in person or via a video chat.
As always, if you have any questions or issues and want to get in touch, please do not hesitate to drop us an email on christina.rees.mp@parliament.uk or call us on 01639 630152. My staff are working from home to comply with the social distancing measures, but, as always, we remain there should you need to get in contact with us.
I hope you stay well, enjoy the weekend and, remember – stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.