As we feel the unprecedented effects of COVID-19, the team at Co-operative Development Scotland want to offer our support in this incredibly difficult time to our clients.
The changes we have seen to every aspect of our lives at the moment may be overwhelming, but we would like to do what we can to help you with the immediate challenges your business or co-operative may be facing by signposting to the network of support available from the government and key partners. Links and details about support available are listed below.
We are part of Scottish Enterprise who are developing a single, joined up response across Scotland’s enterprise agencies. The agencies, Business Gateway Services and local authorities are coordinating the response alongside the Scottish and UK Governments, business organisations and industry bodies. To access the most up to date guidance and support, please visit:
Scottish Government Find Business Support Website
We would also recommend you sign up for regular updates from this website.
Support for Employee Owned Businesses
Our partners at the Employee Ownership Association are providing tailored support to employee-owned businesses in relation to the impact of COVID-19. They have created a hub detailing support and are hosting regular webinars addressing specific business needs:
Support for Co-ops
Co-operatives UK are also working to provide tailored support for co-operatives. Their advice pages collate a range of practical guides and guidance for co‑ops including a dedicated HR section. They are also hosting regular webinars which can be accessed through the same pages.
Support for Community Co-ops
The Third Sector Resilience Fund is a £20m emergency fund for charities, community groups, social enterprises and voluntary organisations working in Scotland. The fund will support organisations that already deliver services and products but find themselves in financial difficulties directly as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. This fund may be accessed by some community co-ops:
Kind regards.
Co-operative Development Scotland
