Updated 8th April 2020, 01:12. For the latest medical advice, visit NHS.uk/Coronavirus.
On the left hand side of this page (or at the bottom, if you're on a mobile device) you can see a number of links which set out the support for businesses and individuals, as well as more information on the Coronavirus outbreak.
An update on Prime Minister Boris Johnson
The Prime Minister was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at St Thomas' Hospital in London on Monday evening as a precaution, and on the advice of his medical team. The First Secretary of State, Dominic Raab will deputise for the Prime Minister where necessary, and the whole government remains united in working to implement the Prime Minister's plan to tackle coronavirus, guided by the very best scientific and medical advice.
Coronavirus does not discriminate. Anybody can get it. Anybody can spread it. That's why it is so important that we stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.
The government will continue to give regular updates, and I know you will join me in wishing the Prime Minister a full and speedy recovery, along with everyone else suffering from coronavirus.
WhatsApp updates
The GOV.UK Coronavirus Information Service is an automated 'chatbot' which allows you to get answers to common questions about coronavirus from the government.
Simply add 07860 064422 in your phone contacts and then message the word ‘hi’ in a WhatsApp message to get started.
Live Updates:
Free School Meals during the Easter Holidays
00:45, 08/04/2019
The government has extended financial support for children eligible for free school meals throughout the Easter holidays.
Whilst many schools already have local arrangements in place, this funding means that schools which do not can order vouchers for families, or be reimbursed for additional costs.
Working Tax Credit Increase
22:04, 07/04/2020
As part of a number of measures to support people during Coronavirus, the basic element of Working Tax Credit has been increased by £1,045 to £3,040 from 6 April 2020 until 5 April 2021.
It could mean an increase of £20 each week. Click here to find out more.
Tell the NHS about your Coronavirus experience
22:04, 05/04/2020
If you've had, or think you've had coronavirus, please tell the NHS about your experience.
This survey will help the NHS to understand more about where and how coronaviruses affecting people. Click here to take part.
Updates to the Coronavirus Business Loan Scheme
16:04, 03/04/2020
Today, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced updates to the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme. The changes include:
- current loan scheme extended so more small businesses can benefit
- lenders banned from requesting personal guarantees on loans under £250,000
- new scheme announced to bolster support for larger firms not currently eligible for loans
A plan for 100,000 coronavirus tests a day
22:00, 02/04/2020
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced a plan for 100,000 coronavirus tests a day by the end of this month.
Professor John Newton the Director of Health Improvement for Public Health England, has been appointed to help deliver the new plans and bring together industry, universities, NHS and government behind the ambitious testing targets.
Clap for our carers
20:15, 02/04/2020
Thank you to all our @NHSuk staff + key workers for all you are doing to help fight #coronavirus. 💙#ClapForOurCarers pic.twitter.com/y27VytoAKg
— Guy Opperman (@GuyOpperman) April 2, 2020
Support for people who have just moved jobs
19:07, 01/04/2020
If you left your job after 28th Feburary, have been left with no work because of coronavirus, and are not claiming furlough, you can now be re-employed by your previous employer. They can put you on furlough leave, so you will be paid 80% of your previous salary, or £2,500 a month.
Click here for more information.
British Citizens Abroad
12:01, 31/03/2020
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has announced a new partnership between government and airlines to fly home stranded British travellers, with up to £75m funding.
Train Ticket Refunds
21:37, 29/03/2020
Today, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced refunds for advanced train tickets purchased, as well as season ticket holder refunds for time unused.
Contact your train operator for more details.
Supporting the self-employed
22:49, 26/03/2020
Today, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a new package of support for the self-employed.
The government will pay self-employed people, who have been adversely affected by the coronavirus, a taxable grant worth 80% of their average monthly profits over the last 3 years, up to £2,500 per month. The scheme will be open for at least three months, and extended if necessary.