More than 2,000 Aberdeenshire Businesses Benefit from £26 million Cash Support Through Crisis

SNP MSPs Gillian Martin and Stewart Stevenson have welcomed new figures showing that 2,314 businesses in Aberdeenshire have received Scottish Government grants to support firms through the coronavirus crisis.

A total of £26.91million has been awarded in Aberdeenshire through a Scottish Government scheme to support small businesses and the retail, hospitality, and leisure sector.

This grant support is worth over £1 billion to business and is part of the wider business support package worth £2.3 billion.

So that funding can be distributed as quickly as possible, eligibility for the grant scheme is linked to the non-domestic rates system.

Commenting, SNP MSP Gillian Martin said:

“The impact of the coronavirus has been undoubtedly felt by every local business I know just how uncertain a time this is for many business owners.

“It is welcome today that Scottish Government funding is going directly into the hands of businesses as it is designed to support firms and ensure that our economy is on the best possible footing when we get through this health crisis.

“Our support for business is now worth £2.3 billion, which is more than we have received from the UK Government and actively works to fill the gaps in the UK schemes with tailored support for the Scottish economy.

“I encourage all businesses in Aberdeenshire to apply for funding and ensure they are receiving the support they’re entitled to.”

Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP, Stewart Stevenson added:

“The coronavirus pandemic has dealt a significant financial blow to our economy, has pushed businesses into hardship, and damaged people’s livelihoods through no fault of their own.

“With many sectors of the economy having to close their doors due to public health advice, strengthening financial measures during this crisis is more important than ever and it is only right that businesses and individuals are supported.

“The cost of not going further in support now will only be more damaging in the long run – I urge the UK government to take bold and comprehensive action to ensure a strong recovery and to build a fairer society."

MSP Welcomes Kindness Calls During Self-Isolation

Stewart Stevenson has welcomed an army of over 4,000 volunteers trained by the Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland ready to help people in the North-east who are self-isolating and vulnerable to coronavirus.

The charity is ready to match individuals with a volunteer who can offer regular phone calls, practical help with shopping, collecting medication, or dog-walking.

The charity’s army of Kindness Volunteers are here to help people like Rosalind.

Rosalind Alexander was worried about the impact that isolation would have on her mental health. But then she got matched with Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Kindness Caller Volunteer, Christine Ferguson. Christine now calls Rosalind once or twice a week. It has made a huge difference to Rosalind's life and she wants to thank Christine.

Rosalind Alexander said:

“It just gives you a wee bit hope in your day, knowing that someone else in on the other side of the phone, just seeing how you’re doing. It just makes my day!”

Welcoming the initiative, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“In this time of crisis, it is heart warming to see volunteers across Scotland offering their time to support those most vulnerable and in need.

“A simple phone call can really make all the difference to those who are isolating and I would encourage anyone who would benefit from this service to get in touch with Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland.”

Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive at Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland, said:

“We have been overwhelmed by the amazing response we have had from volunteers who want to help people across Scotland. They are trained and ready to go and have already begun helping people in their communities.

“If you need help with anything from your shopping to simply chatting to someone over the phone, we are here for you. Pick up the phone and give us call us today and we will match you with a volunteer in your area.

“No one should be left to fight this virus alone. We are here to help.”

To get help from Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland while you are isolating please call their Advice Line on 0808 801 0899.

MSP Gives a Thumbs up to Thank his Postie

On National Postal Workers Day (29th April) Stewart Stevenson MSP has given a thumbs up to his postie and postmen and women across Scotland for their hard work during COVID-19.

More than ever, the Royal Mail is playing an important role in communities, delivering parcels and letters to keep the country together during this crisis.

For the most vulnerable who do not have the option to leave their homes, postmen and women have been delivering essential prescriptions and hospital appointments. The Royal Mail also recently announced that they have been chosen as a key partner in the delivery and return of coronavirus tests to NHS and social care frontline staff up and down the country.

The North-east MSP is urging everyone to give a thumbs up to their postie to say thank you to our local postal staff and as a handy reminder not to reach out to try and take parcels directly from postmen and women as the Royal Mail moves to contact-free delivery. He said:

“Royal Mail postal workers have continued to serve our communities across the North-east throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and deserve to be properly recognised and thanked for their hard work.

“One simple way of paying tribute to our Postal Workers and recognising their contributions is by ensuring we give them a big thumbs up for all that they are doing to keep Scotland connected.

“Coronavirus has highlighted exactly who our key workers are, and how essential they are and I think it’s paramount we show our gratitude to them."