
I have collated useful websites and phone numbers providing support and advice during this period. Please do not hesitate to email me at tobias.ellwood.mp@parliament.uk if you require further assistance.
If you are concerned about non-compliance with social distancing in your area please contact Dorset Police.
The Government's official advice can be found here.
Information for businesses
Through this link you can find the details of a package of measures to support businesses.
This includes:
- Paying your employees
- Paying sick pay
- Paying tax
- Business rates relief
- Business support grant funds
- Support for the self-employed
- Support for small and medium-sized businesses
- Support for large businesses
The government has also set up a dedicated website which helps you find the right support, advice and information to help with the impact of coronavirus (Covid-19) on your business. This can be found here.
0300 456 3565 – Business support helpline (free support for business’s)
0800 015 9559 – HMRC support helpline
Support for businesses in Bournemouth East
Get support from the BCP Council here.
Get support from the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry here.
Get support from the Dorset LEP here.
Support for the self-employed
The Self-employment income support scheme will allow you to claim a taxable grant worth 80% of your trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for the next 3 months. This may be extended if needed. Details of who can apply can be found here.
Support for Individuals
This is the official DWP website for claiming benefits including Universal Credit.
Helpline for vulnerable Bournemouth residents
The Together We Can helpline:
BCP Council has launched a Volunteer Hub and dedicated helpline to support vulnerable people who need vital support while isolating at home during the coronavirus outbreak. This includes help with food supplies.
The dedicated helpline is 0300 123 7052 and will be open 8am – 8pm seven days a week.
Find out more information here.
Universal credit
Helpline for advice: 0800 328 5644
Support for those affected by Covid-19
Support for those affected by Covid-19 regarding claiming Statutory Sick Pay (including for those not eligible); getting a sick note; advice for those who are self-employed and receiving Universal Credit; and information for businesses regarding sickness absence due to Covid-19 can be found here.
Clinically extremely vulnerable people
Get support as a clinically extremely vulnerable person by registering here.
Medical help
Online symptom checker: https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19/
ONLY call 111 if you cannot get help online
Support for victims of Domestic Abuse
The order to stay at home can cause anxiety for those who are experiencing or feel at risk of domestic abuse. See where you can get help here.
Support for Parents, Carers and Teachers
Department for Education Helpline is available for parents, young people and staff to ask any questions about COVID-19 and education and children’s social care.
Phone: 0800 046 8687 (Open: 8am to 6pm Monday-Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday-Sunday)
Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk
How to volunteer
Volunteer here to help the NHS.
Volunteer here to help in the ‘Together We Can’ community response in Bournemouth.
Support for supply of Ventilators or ventilator components - 0300 456 3565 or here.
British Nationals abroad
Helpline for assistance and advice: +44 207 088 1500
Use online services to contact the Embassy and check for updates.
Other Support
Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602
Samaritans: 116 123