New statistics reveal that self-employed Borderers have benefitted from the UK Government income support scheme to the tune of almost £11m.
The Self-Employed Income Support Scheme was announced at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic to go alongside the furlough scheme for employees to help cover lost income.
£10.9m has been successfully claimed by around 4,200 people in the Borders. This represents an average payment of £2,600, above the Scottish and UK average of £2,500.
The figures also show that 62% of eligible self employed in the Borders have taken up the scheme.
Across the UK, by October 31st, the scheme had paid out over £13.5bn.
The figures, from HMRC, also showed fewer people using the furlough scheme. At the end of September, 3,400 people were furloughed, around 7% of those eligible. This was down from 13,000 people in May – 25% of the employed Borders workforce – suggesting that more people are getting back to work.
The Chancellor recently announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended to the end of March 2021 to help keep jobs and protect businesses through the winter months marred with restrictions and closures. The scheme sees the UK Government pay 80% of the wages of employees unable to work due to coronavirus restrictions.
John Lamont MP: “Both the furlough and self employed schemes have been a lifeline for businesses and workers, and very successful in stopping mass unemployment across the UK.
“There is a tough winter ahead, and it is right that the furlough scheme has been extended until March by the UK Government. This will continue to help protect jobs in the Borders.
“Over £11m has been given to the self employed to help with their incomes. The high take up rate shows how useful this has been in supporting Borderers throughout this pandemic.
“2020 has been a very tough year for everyone. Without this vital help provided by the UK Treasury our economy would be in a significantly poorer place.”
