HELP is on hand for businesses struggling through the pandemic in Northwich and Winsford.

More than £18 million has been handed over in grants to Cheshire West businesses since November 2020, in more than 11,000 payments, to help see firms through the coronavirus crisis.

An additional one-off lump sum payment of up to £9,000 for businesses forced to close under the current national lockdown is also available – meaning non-essential shops, salons, hospitality and indoor leisure businesses could receive a lifeline.

Cllr Carol Gahan, cabinet member for legal and finance at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "The borough’s business community continues to take the brunt of the impact of the coronavirus lockdown. Our hospitality, retail and leisure sectors have been hit hard.

“The resilience of the business community in the borough has been remarkable and we are doing all we can to help. Our teams have been processing the applications and getting the money out to those who need it as quickly as they can.

“There is still time to apply for grant support and we would urge everyone to continue to work with us to get through this difficult time.”

For more information see CWAC's website, while businesses can also get advice from the council's Let's Talk Business site.