CIPR and PRCA welcome Chancellor’s statement but raise concerns for self-employed

The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) have jointly issued the following statement following the Chancellor's announcement on the latest package of support measures;

Joint statement:

We welcome today's announced measures from the Government in ensuring the economy is sustainable for the next phase of the pandemic as the furlough scheme comes to an end.

The new Job Support Scheme, cancelling increases in VAT for targeted sectors, and the extension of coronavirus loan schemes goes someway to support businesses and retain jobs through the next six months. In particular, we welcome the financial support that comes with the extension of the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) until 30 April 2021.

However, we are deply concerned to see a lack of support available to professionals operating as limited company directors or those who are newly self-employed.

We have repeatedlyraised these same concerns with the Chancellorthat those running small companies had lost a significant amount of work whilst unable to benefit from either the SEISS or the abatement of business rates.

The impact on these individuals has been immense with research showing that one-third have lost 80% or more of their income. These are individuals who drive the economy through their support of businesses across the country. Many have barely survived the last six months. To ask them to do so over the next six months with no support will only detriment our recovery.

Alastair McCapra - CEO, Chartered Institute of Public Relations

Francis Ingham MPRCA - Director General, Public Relations and Communications Association