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<p>The government recognises that every region and community will be feeling the impact
of this crisis and remains committed to helping the unemployed return to work and
supporting those most vulnerable to job losses. We will continue to work closely with
local areas to make sure that individuals and businesses are directed to the right
support during this difficult period. To support those on low incomes throughout the
outbreak, the government has created a package of temporary welfare measures, including
a £20 per week increase in the Universal Credit standard allowance and an increase
in the Local Housing Allowance.</p><p>The Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme
will provide businesses in England which are forced to close due to local restrictions
with up to £3,000 per month, depending on their rateable value.</p><p>Additionally,
and from 1 November, in line with the Jobs Support Scheme, businesses in England which
have been forced to close on a national basis or which have not been able to reopen
since the national lockdown was introduced in March, will also be eligible for these
grants.</p><p>In order to protect jobs and UK businesses, we are expanding the Job
Support Scheme for businesses legally required to temporarily close their premises
as a direct result of Coronavirus restrictions. The Government will provide employers
with a grant for employees unable to work, covering two thirds of their usual wages
and subject to a cap. Support will be available to eligible businesses from 1 November
for 6 months, with a review in January.</p><p>The Prime Minister also announced on
Monday that a further £1bn will be made available to LAs in England to support them
during this unprecedented time; and that up to £465m would be provided to LAs at High
or Very High Alert through the Contain Outbreak Management Fund. This is in addition
to the more than £4.8bn of funding which has already been provided to LAs in England
to help them manage the impacts of Covid.</p>
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