Lockdown Latest at Table Art
MD Gary Martin | Dated June 17th 2020:
Welcome to this week’s Lockdown Latest at Table Art.
Latest Changes
This week has seen some big changes in the lockdown. From yesterday, non-essential shops were allowed to re-open here in England. Social Media was full of photos showing ridiculously long queues at large, popular shopping chains. I think the whole shopping experience is very different though. Although I didn’t’ venture to the shops myself, I believe most shops were limiting customer numbers inside at any one time. There are tight restrictions for trying on clothes and shoes. Screens are in place at the tills. But at least they are now open and some businesses are finally generating income again.
Also, this week some year groups have returned to school. Again, it is a very different experience for the children. They sit at desks 2 metres apart. They cannot share pens, toys, food etc. But it is the first step back to proper education.
Sporting events are also back in full swing now. They are all held behind closed doors but it is the first step.
What about the Event Industry
So where does this leave the event industry? Unfortunately, there is still no sign of when this will return. However, there is a lot of talk about reducing or scrapping the 2 metre rule. With airlines now operating domestic flights with passengers sitting next to each other, it does seem only a matter of time before other industries can do the same. As long as we can avoid a second large wave, fingers crossed, I am sure things will gradually change for the better.
There is also good news from scientists today. An existing, £5 steroid drug, used to treat other conditions, has been found to significantly reduce death in COVID patients. Hospital will be using it from tomorrow. Fingers crossed this will reduce the awful number of deaths caused by this dreadful virus.
News of Possible Financial Help
In the meantime, how do we all get through financially? Well I have news of a discretionary grant that may now be available to some. If you were not eligible for either the £10,000 or the £25,000 grants, don’t give up just yet. There is a new grant that may be available for those that didn’t qualify for the other 2. Local authorities can issue a grant of up to £25,000 at their own discretion for companies affected adversely by COVID. There are no guarantees but, for example, North Warwickshire Borough Council specifically mention helping “Businesses who work within the Events field, particularly those who supply key equipment to venues which have been closed due to COVID-19 pandemic”. Search your local authority website to find out how to apply.
Table Art
Here the lockdown latest at Table Art is all good. As a lot of you will know, we are trying to make the best of the situation by using our skills and expertise in other ways. We have been very busy producing protective screens for retail outlets including shops, barbers, beauty salons and hairdressers and of course bars and restaurants. Our range of screens is proving extremely popular and will hopefully help many businesses re-open on 4th July.
I hope you have enjoyed this week’s Lockdown Latest. Let me know if you have any success with the discretionary grant.
Stay Safe.