Barnet Council has so far paid out more than £19 million to help keep local businesses afloat during the coronavirus pandemic.A Government-backed scheme offers grants of between £10,000 and £25,000 for eligible companies, and more than 1,000 Barnet-based firms have so far received payments.

The size of the grants available depends on businesses’ rateable values.

Those receiving small business rate relief have access to a cash grant of £10,000.

Retail, hospitality and leisure firms with a rateable value of less than £15,000 can receive a lump sum grant of £10,000, while £25,000 grants are available for those with a rateable value between £15,001 and £51,000.

The council will contact businesses that are eligible for the payments. Firms for which the council does not hold bank account details but which could be eligible for a grant can submit their details using the council’s website.

Council leader Cllr Dan Thomas (Conservative, Finchley Church End) encouraged firms to submit their details – and warned against “unscrupulous” companies offering to make grant applications in return for a fee.

Cllr Thomas said: “I am pleased to say that more than £19 million of support has already gone to many of our local businesses during what is an unbelievably challenging time for them.

“Small businesses provide a livelihood to many people, are an integral part of the borough, and we will do everything we can to help them through this.

“A significant amount of money has already been paid out, and a huge effort is still underway to ensure we process payments as quickly as we possibly can.

“I would encourage businesses which haven’t been contacted, but which feel they are eligible, to visit our website and submit their details.

“I would also like to caution businesses against using unscrupulous companies offering to make grant applications in return for a fee. It is unnecessary and I would strongly advise businesses to avoid using them.”

Full details on the financial support available to businesses is available at: https://www.barnet.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-latest-information-and-advice/business-and-employment-covid-19