| answer text |
<p>The welfare of companion animals remains a priority for Defra throughout the coronavirus
pandemic. My department continues to work closely with the companion animal welfare
sector to understand the concerns of the sector and address how organisations that
work with companion animals have been affected by Covid-19.</p><p> </p><p>The Government
has announced various measures to help businesses and charities cope in these strained
times whilst remaining completely focussed on managing and eradicating the virus.
Organisations can apply for the full range of COVID-19 support measures that the government
has made available:</p><p><a href="http://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support"
target="_blank">www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support</a>.</p><p> </p><p>There has
been a change to the eligibility criteria for the Coronavirus Business Interruption
Loan Scheme (CBILS). The CBILS requirement for a small to medium-size enterprise to
generate more than 50% of its income from trading has been removed for registered
charities.</p><p> </p><p>The Charity Commission has also issued comprehensive guidance
on running a charity during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Details can be found
at: <a href="http://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-the-charity-sector"
target="_blank">www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-the-charity-sector</a>.
This includes advice for Trustees on managing financial difficulties with respect
to use of reserves, restricted funds and provisions to help businesses continue operating
and avoid insolvency during this period of economic uncertainty.</p><p> </p><p>In
addition to this, we have worked closely with the sector through the Canine and Feline
Sector Group and National Equine Welfare Council to agree and update guidance to animal
rescue and rehoming organisations, and other animal charities and businesses. This
has enabled them to undertake core operations as far as possible, whilst maintaining
compliance with the social distancing rules and need for hygiene precautions to help
prevent the spread of coronavirus.</p><p> </p><p>Defra remains committed to continued
engagement with the sector to understand the longer-term impacts of the coronavirus
pandemic, monitor the animal welfare implications of this and offer appropriate advice.</p>
|
|
