No Nonsense Business Advice for UK Shoots and Estates

Here’s a few things you can do to support your business during these difficult times.

When it comes down to it, those of us overseeing shoots and estates are running businesses and we need to both get through this and then, when this is over, get on with things as business as normal.  

And this will end.  

It might seem hard but there is already light at the end of the tunnel.

And, in the meantime, HAMS is here to support you in any way we can.

In line with this, and as part of a series of articles we’re doing to help support our community during this time, we’ve made a list of some practical financial things you can do to help.

All of the below is true at the time of publication but it’s worth pointing out that the government is tweaking and updating constantly so please double check everything with the relevant authorities.

Help for Employees

Firstly, let’s take care of our staff.  

If you’re running a PAYE scheme you’re eligible for the government’s job retention scheme which will pay 80% of the salary of employees up to a maximum of £2,500 for a 3 month period.  

This includes everyone on PAYE that you have asked to stop working but who will remain on your payroll whether that’s your underkeeper or your bookkeeper. 

SSP

The government will reimburse small businesses for up to two weeks of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) per staff member who is ill due to Covid-19 and this includes anyone that needs to self-isolate. The normal signed note from the GP is currently not required.

Tax Deferment

You can defer your VAT payments to June 20th. You don’t need to apply for this as it has been set automatically. Though be sure to cancel the direct debit if you have one set up.  

HMRC have a helpline and if you are unsure about any of this you should give them a call: 0800 0241 222 - Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm. 

Zero-interest Loans

The government small biz bounce back loans ARE usable to SUPPORT YOUR INCOME. Loans can be up to £50,000. They're interest and payment-free in the first year and after that they are set at an annual interest rate of 2.5%. To access these, ask your bank or speak to one of the accredited providers.

Business Rates Grants

Shoots and estates that currently receive the rural rate relief or small business rate relief can apply for a £10,000 small business grant from their local authority. 

Additionally, if you pay business rates, a separate ‘business rates holiday’ and ‘cash grants’ of £10k or £25k are available specifically for “leisure” companies. 

You may need to chase them about this if they haven’t already made contact with you.

Conclusion

These are hard times but there are things there to support us.

They might not be perfect but at the moment we need to make the most of them. Be sure to check out our other articles to help during these uncertain times.

In the meantime, till we can all meet in person again, stay safe and if there is something we can do to help just let us know.