BUSINESSES across Rossendale that have been affected by the Omicron variant are being encouraged to come forward and apply for additional grant support.

The council have said that even if businesses have received funding previously, they may still be entitled to these new support packages.

The Government recently announced further support for businesses, with the Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant and a further round of the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG).

Businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors which have been and continue to be adversely affected by Omicron can make applications via the council’s website.

The Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) is designed to support those businesses that have been identified as a priority for support following the outbreak of the Omicron variant.

The scheme will focus on those businesses that are deemed to be struggling financially and can clearly show ongoing financial difficulties due to Covid.

Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Borough Council, said: "Local businesses are still experiencing incredibly challenging times, and those within the hospitality and leisure sector have been impacted most significantly.

"We want to encourage all Rossendale businesses who are eligible to submit an application to claim the funding that they are entitled to."

The scheme provides Rossendale Council with limited funding, to help those that continue to be severely impacted by restrictions or are struggling with the transition out of restrictions.

Cllr Barnes added: "We will try and work as fast as we can to make sure that those that are eligible receive their grants as quickly as possible. This will also be determined by the volume of applications so we suggest the quicker you make the application the quicker it will be dealt with."

Both schemes close for applications on 13th February 2022 and can be made on the Rossendale Council website.