- BUSINESS
- HEALTH
- HOUSING
- PETS
- PPE
- SELF EMPLOYED
- STUDENTS
- TEACHERS
As the country comes to terms with the fast-paced change and social impact that Coronavirus has brought, I will try to keep these pages as up-to-date as possible to address constituent concerns and to provide the most reliable information available. Please also keep an eye on my Facebook and Twitter pages.
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment continues to be a pressing issue. There have been numerous Government reassurances about efforts to procure and deliver masks, gloves, aprons and other essential equipment. However, the word on the ground from hospital and care homes is that there is still not enough to go around.
Where key workers range from immediate NHS front line staff to Royal Mail staff and supermarket workers, we need to ensure they are protected – as quickly as possible. See below for current advice on how and when to use the equipment.
PPE links
PPE documents
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HOUSING
Housing needs vary tremendously across society. As our local councils and charities work tirelessly to house the most vulnerable and ensure the homeless, those at risk of domestic abuse, and those in unhealthy accommodation are prioritised, others have urgent housing needs too, and many people remain concerned about evictions.
The Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill includes provisions to protect people from eviction during the pandemic. My Labour colleague Pauline McNeill MSP worked hard to ensure that the Scottish Government these issues to support people through the current crisis. The Act complements and supplements the Coronavirus Act 2020 (2020 Act), passed by the UK Parliament on 25 March 2020, and to which the Scottish Parliament consented on 24 March 2020. The Bill includes necessary and urgent measures to address the threats posed by Covid-19 in Scotland. The Act will last 30 September 2020, with the power to extend another six months at a time until 30 September 2021. It was not without controversy however and I am glad that the measures to remove jury trials from our justice system were removed by the Scottish Government after a raft of objections.
Tenants affected by coronavirus who are concerned about paying their rent can claim Universal Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions which includes support for housing costs, if eligible. The UK Government has introduced some temporary changes to make this easier. If a tenant is getting Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, but still can’t afford their housing costs, they may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). Further information on DHPs and how to apply.
Further support is available for people on low incomes from the Scottish Welfare Fund if facing an emergency situation.
Housing links
Housing documents
TEACHERS
I’m continuing to receive emails and concerns from constituents regarding the position of supply teachers and pay during Coronavirus. The most up-to-date information shows that supply teachers will continue to be paid until the end of their present contract.
Teacher links
Teacher documents
NHS & HEALTH
NHS staff continue to be our front line against the spread of Coronavirus and are key workers. Although parking charges at some hospitals have been waived, other NHS staff still require regular use of public transport. Scottish Labour and the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association is demanding that free transport should be offered as a matter of urgency. It is a simple case of presenting ID while boarding the bus or train. See the TSSA position below.
NHS links
NHS documents
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BUSINESS
Information for businesses is being updated regularly. Biggest concerns have focused on some businesses narrowly missing the eligibility criteria for relief, and others not being able to access manageable loans to help them weather the pandemic. As of April 3rd 2020, the government has updated its current advice for business owners worried about the impact of Coronavirus. It includes Job Retention support and deferring VAT and Income Tax payments, and child provision for key workers.
We also need to encourage employers to utilise the furlough system as much as possible to ensure people keep a continued source of income and avoid the trap of being forced onto Universal Credit. It is a poor strategy if we are to keep the economy ticking over during the crisis
Retail and hospitality businesses can apply for a £25,000 grant here. To apply, you’ll need to complete an application form which you can find on your local council website.
The helpline for Scottish business is 0300 303 0660 and is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm. Add block
Business links
Business documents
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SELF EMPLOYED
Coronavirus has been stressful for the self-employed. Recently, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a rescue package for the self employed, with funds accessible from June. You can access the grant if you’re self-employed or a member of a partnership.
Your self-employed profits must be less than £50,000 per year and they must make up more than half of your total income. The government will look at your tax returns from the last three years to assess your eligibility – if you’re not sure you can check the rules on GOV.UK. Currently, the online service you’ll use to claim is not available yet but HMRC aims to contact you by mid May 2020, and will make payments by early June 2020. In the meantime you can make a claim for universal credit while you wait for the grant. In Scotland this is paid once, or sometimes twice, per month.
The self-employed can claim a grant through the coronavirus (COVID-19) Self-employment Income Support Scheme (link below). However, the portal for applications has not yet opened as of April 22. I will update as soon as possible.
Self employed links
Self employed documents
PETS & ANIMALS
Both the SSPCA and The Canine and Feline Sector Group have issued advice on how to handle pets during coronavirus. Concerns have focused on the possibility of transmission from pet to person, and what to do in the vent that you are admitted to hospital for a period of time and need someone to care for your pets.
Pet links
Pet documents
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STUDENTS
I have been contacted by students and parents, who have expressed concerns about their studies, the impact of Coronavirus on exams, and their student accommodation tenancy rights. I’ve included information below from key partners that can offer some guidance on steps to take if you find yourself struggling with issues around education.
Student links
Student documents
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