‘When can I reopen my shop?’ Small retailers questions answered

As some large retailers begin reopening stores ahead of a moderate relaxation of lockdown rules, it’s fair to say things are looking a bit brighter for businesses. But small retailers and independent stores lack the big budgets, sizeable staff and space that giant chains have and many are wondering how they can prepare to reopen … Read more

Child’s play? Here’s how one teen boosted his income to over £900 a month teaching people to game 

Ben Noble, 17, earns an income from teaching others to play Rocket League For many parents, the sight of their children playing hours of video games while school is out thanks to the coronavirus lockdown might drive them to despair. However, some children and adults alike are increasingly etching out a career from gaming. One of … Read more

Bizkids: How to set up a business as a child

Natasha Courtenay-Smith pictured with her children Annelise (7) and Finn (11) initially created the online classes for them and her nephew.  Since the coronavirus lockdown started, many have created free virtual lessons for children.  Topics vary from science to phonics, PE to history – and now, there is one based on entrepreneurship. Serial entrepreneur, Natasha … Read more

At last! Rishi’s lifeline loans are starting to come through

Slowly but surely, small businesses are obtaining much-needed finance from the Government-backed Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan scheme.  Yet, as Sarah Bridge reports, it hasn’t all been plain sailing. Some have accessed funds quickly while others have been left waiting anxiously. A few have thought on their feet and come up trumps as a result… We’ll … Read more

A million self-employed people are unable to access coronavirus income support

Hundreds of thousands of small business bosses have called on the government to review qualifying criteria so they can access vital income support.  More than a month after the Chancellor’s initiatives to support the self-employed during the Covid-19 crisis were announced, there are still vast numbers of small business owners and sole traders who don’t … Read more

We are suing Hiscox as it won’t pay coronavirus claims

British businesses that bought insurance covering them for forced closure due to disease are set to sue insurer Hiscox for refusing to pay their coronavirus claims.  The ‘Hiscox Action Group’, a collection of over 150 firms plan to take the veteran Lloyds of London insurer to court, arguing that their business interruption policies should cover … Read more

Chancellor’s business loans scheme was launched to great fanfare – but reality has been a letdown

Leigh Bryant is trying his utmost to remain positive, but it is not easy.  As the owner and manager of Bristol-based motor home accessory fitters LNB Towbars, this should be a peak time of year for him as his customers get ready for their summer holidays.  But with his company closed due to the coronavirus … Read more