COVID-19 - Small businesses, employment laws and survival support

The Covid-19 Lockdown will have significant consequences for the economy, businesses and employees, but there are ways to lessen the impact. Aside from finding ways to continue operating insofar as that may be possible under the current circumstances, various relief programs are available that businesses and employees can access.

Given that current circumstances are fluid, it is important to keep up to date with developments including any changes regarding the programmes and application procedures. As a reminder, here are some of the Relief Programmes to investigate if you have not yet done so:

Small Business Relief Programmes

• The DSBD (Department of Small Business Development) will provide relief to businesses in several categories. Call them on 0860 663 7867, email info@dsbd.gov.za or apply at https://smmesa.gov.za/.

• The DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) will provide relief for large businesses as well as small. Keep an eye on the DTI's website at https://www.thedti.gov.za/ for developments.

• The Solidarity Fund continues to grow as it is bolstered by donations with the aim to, amongst others, assist and support those affected (contact details visit https://www.solidarityfund.co.za/).

• Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (COVID19TERS) - provides UIF benefits from a special R30bn National Disaster Benefit Fund. Access the "Easy Guide for employers on COVID19" at http://www.labour.gov.za/easy-guide-for-employers-on-covid19 or visit https://uifecc.labour.gov.za/covid19/covid19 for information on how to apply.

• The Rupert and Oppenheimer families have also pledged R1 billion each to help struggling small businesses and employees. The Rupert Programme is administered by Business Partners/The Sukuma Relief Programme, visit https://finance.businesspartners.co.za/ for information. The Oppenheimer Programme is administered by four of SA's leading banks, Standard Bank, FNB, ABSA and Nedbank. Visit their respective websites for information.

• Additional relief such as tax relief, changes to the Competition Act, a fund to support the tourism sector and more were also announced by the President in his speech. Read here for information.

Employers - the importance of legal compliance and forward planning

For employers, it is important to remain compliant with current labour laws subject to government announcing any new measures to the contrary. If you are unsure about any employee matters, it is best to seek legal advice. It is important too that employers put plans in place in terms of the way forward for the rest of the year, having regard to the potential effects of Covid-19. Work out various possible scenarios and actions that you need to take, both in terms of the Lockdown and for after it ends.

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