About

Anna is Senior Reporter, covering topics affecting SMEs such as grant funding, managing employees and the day-to-day running of a business.

News

Government mulls extending 2% online sales tax to all small businesses

The Treasury is considering extending a 2% online sales tax to all small businesses, according to a Business Rates Review interim report

News

Chelsea FC opens applications for free ad space to small London businesses

As part of its 'Proud of London' campaign, Chelsea FC is inviting small businesses with London postcodes to apply for free advertising space.

News

Insurers pay out nearly 40% of expected £1.2bn SME Covid bill

Since the court ruling in January, many SME business interruption claims are still awaiting decision, despite insurers being told to act fast.

News

Demand for business stress counselling nearly doubles since Covid

There has been a huge rise in counselling for business owners and staff suffering from stress and anxiety over the Covid-19 pandemic

Government Grants

How the newly self-employed should navigate the complex SEISS process

Applying for SEISS isn't as straightforward as it may seem, say Old Mill. Here's how the newly self-employed should get through the process

News

Covid grant extends to newly started businesses in Kensington and Chelsea

Kensington and Chelsea Council have opened up a third round of the Additional Restrictions Grant which is open to even more businesses

News

Covid-19 roadmap – when can I reopen my business in Scotland?

Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has laid out the next steps of her roadmap to ease Covid-19 restrictions for businesses from April

News

UK-EU exports fell by over 40% in January 2021

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals that UK-EU exports fell in the first month after the end of the Brexit transition

News

Covid-19 roadmap – when can I reopen my small business in Wales?

Mark Drakeford, First Minister of Wales, has announced Covid-19 restriction easing, including when some businesses could reopen

Business Loans

Recovery Loan Scheme up to £10m will replace CBILS and BBLS

In his Budget, Rishi Sunak has announced a Recovery Loan Scheme to replace the CBILS and Bounce Back Loan schemes.

News

Government to launch £520m Help to Grow scheme for SMEs

In the 2021 Budget, Rishi Sunak announced a new £520m Help to Grow scheme that will help small businesses boost their productivity

Employing & managing staff

How do I manage an employee with Long Covid?

Long Covid can make patients feel foggy, breathless and drained. We explore how to manage and support employees who have the condition