Discretionary Grant Scheme

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

My business has suffered a significant reduction in trade but I am unsure if it is under or over 20%?

You know your business best. In order to apply, you must reasonably believe that you have suffered a significant reduction in trading profits due to reduced business activity, capacity, demand, staff availability or inability to trade due to coronavirus. You must provide evidence that shows how your business has been impacted by coronavirus resulting in less business activity than otherwise expected. When filling out the application form you are required to declare that the information provided is correct and if any information provided is later found to be false, repayment of funding may be required and, depending on circumstances, criminal proceedings may be instigated. 

I operate my business with a personal bank account, not a business one – Can I apply for this grant?

Yes - The Highland Council prefers businesses to have a formal Business Bank Account but accepts use of a normal/ personal bank account that is used mainly for your business, showing income and outgoings and is in your/or the business name.   

Can I apply for the Discretionary Grant Scheme even if I have  already received support?

If you have recently (since January 2022) received grant support from one of the grant schemes the Scottish Government has provided, either through Highland Council or another public body/ agency, you will not be able to apply for a grant under this programme. Please use the links provided to check whether there are other UK or Scottish Government grant schemes available.   

My business has more than one office – Is it possible to have a grant for each location in Highlands?

No – the grant is awarded per business and not per location. 

I am the director of more than one business – Can all businesses apply for the grant?

Yes – each business can apply individually for a grant provided independent and discrete management in place. 

I can't complete the online application – can I complete the form offline?

Yes – please email COVID-19discretionarygrants@highland.gov.uk and request a paper application form. You will receive this by email and will be able to print and post your forms along with supporting evidence. 

Other questions or clarification

If I don’t qualify for this grant, what other support is available?

A number of other support mechanisms do exist with some of those run directly by the UK/ Scottish Governments or agencies continuing or been revised and we’ve tried to give some advice and links that might be of use. 

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