Stratford-on-Avon District Council COVID-19 daily update - 1 April

During the Covid-19 Pandemic Stratford-on-Avon District Council will issue a daily update (from Monday to Friday) for residents and businesses.  

Key updates - 1 April

Business rate grants
The on-line application form is now on the website at - https://www.stratford.gov.uk/online-forms/small-business-grant.cfm

Businesses are being asked to complete the on-line application to qualify for the grants.

To date: 414 applications have been received in one day.

Please note: To protect business from fraudsters the District Council will not be asking for bank details over the phone, we will be directing them to completing the online form.

Also please do not disclosure your Business Rates Account number to anyone.

• Land Charges Services
  The District Council's Land Charges Service will not be accepting any NEW land charges applications until further notice.
  
  
• Emergency accommodation
  The emergency protocol has now been triggered across the district in relation to COVID-19 and emergency accommodation is being offered to those sleeping rough.
  
  If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough please call 01789 267575
• Community Support Groups
  Many local groups have set up across the district to support people in their community who may be struggling to get food or medicine and lots of Town & Parish Councils are also offering support.
  
  Warwickshire County Council, with help from the District Council has compiled a directory providing useful information about local organisations, groups and agencies that are providing activities, advice, and services during the current COVID-19 crisis -  https://apps.warwickshire.gov.uk/api/documents/WCCC-966-2079
  
  
• Refuse & Recycling Collection service - no side waste collected
  We are trying our best to ensure that all properties continue to receive a fortnightly refuse and recycling collection during the COVID-19 crisis. In order to ensure a collection for every property, crews will only be able to empty the contents of the bin, and no side waste will be collected with any of the bins during this time to ensure completion of rounds.
   
• Help with Council Tax
  We do completely understand the pressure many households now find themselves under and urge residents to contact the District Council as soon as possible.
  Please remember, if you're struggling with payments there are a number of discounts or reductions you may be eligible for.
  
  Please visit the help and advice pages on the District Council's website - https://www.stratford.gov.uk/council-tax/help-and-advice-for-council-tax-debt.cfm
  
  If you require further assistance please email: revenues@stratford-dc.gov.uk and they will look at all the options available, including rescheduling payments, to suit your needs.
  
  
• Main reception at Elizabeth House closed to the public
  You can still contact the District Council by phone on 01789 267575, although the phone lines are very busy, alternatively email: info@stratford-dc.gov.uk or access services online at www.stratford.gov.uk or visit our Facebook and Twitter for up-to-date information and advice.
  
  

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council says: "The past two weeks have seen massive 'behind the scenes' activity in getting processes established. The benefits of this work are now coming through. Where services may have been reduced this is because people who provide this service may have to self-isolate for 12 weeks. There are also limitations on how much can be done by remote working. What we have achieved is due to the flexibility and commitment of our staff. They have responded brilliantly."