BHA welcomes government support of storm-struck businesses
The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has welcomed the launch of a £10m support scheme by the government to help businesses which have suffered damage and a loss of trade as a result of the ongoing floods and storms.
The announcement follows the BHA's earlier plea for the government to act early to aid storm-struck UK hospitality businesses, while countless numbers of hotels, B&Bs and restaurants have offered shelter and food to families whose homes have been flooded.
Surinder Arora, BHA member and founder and chief executive of the Arora Group, last week handed over his 119-bedroom hotel to the relief effort, offering free accommodation for affected homeowners in the Heathrow area. Meanwhile, Brakes - Arora Hotel's foodservice provider - is donating food and drink during the shelter period.
As well as setting up the £10m Business Support Scheme, which will provide hardship funding for small and medium enterprises in flood affected areas, the government has also announced that extra time will be allowed for businesses to file accounts without any penalties and the launch of a helpline on 0300 456 3565 to offer advice for businesses.
