New statistics showing the huge Government support to self-employed workers in Stourbridge have been welcomed by local MP Suzanne Webb.

2,800 self-employed people in Stourbridge have accessed £6.8 million worth of Government grants through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme’s second tranche. These grants do not need to be paid back and will help to cover lost earnings.

This is in addition to the support given to self-employed workers through the first grant – worth £9.9 million in Stourbridge. 

Self-employed people have had six months of income support during the Coronavirus pandemic; a first grant, covering up to 80 per cent of average monthly profits was made available for March-May, followed by a second grant covering up to 70 per cent of average monthly profits, available for June-August.  

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the Conservative Government has provided a package of economic support to protect both lives and livelihoods worth more than £160 billion. Ms Webb said:

“I know this year has been hugely challenging for self-employed workers in Stourbridge, and these latest figures demonstrate the scale of support that the Conservative Government has put in place to support their livelihoods. 

“Never has the Conservatives’ agenda to level up the whole county been so important – giving our entrepreneurs the confidence they need as they look ahead to the future.”