East London councils have been given millions of pounds to support local businesses through new grant schemes.

The government gave Waltham Forest Council more than £54 million, Redbridge Council more than £49 million and Havering more than £40 million to pay out in grants.

Grants are intended for small businesses and those in the hospitality, leisure or retail industries, although those already in liquidation as of March 11 will not be eligible.

Small businesses will receive a payment of £10,000, while retail, hospitality or leisure businesses worth less than £51,000 could receive up to £25,000 depending on their value.

Government guidance states: “This grant scheme will offer a lifeline to businesses who are struggling to survive due to the corona virus shutdown.

“Local Authorities should make payments as quickly as possible to support struggling businesses.”

How to get the grant

Both Waltham Forest and Redbridge Council state that, where they already have the direct debit of the business rates payer, the grant will be transferred automatically.

However, those who do not pay their business rates by direct debit will have to complete a form online - found here for Waltham Forest and here for Redbridge.

Havering Council makes no mention of automatic payment and encourages businesses to submit their form here.

Businesses that are not registered for business rates are not eligible to receive a grant and the grant is paid to the ratepayer as of March 11.

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