What plans does the Minister have to ensure that the English language teaching industry in Wales receives further financial support given the impact that the continuing travel restrictions have on the industry?
I recognise the incredibly difficult and uncertain circumstances currently being experienced by businesses in the English language teaching (ELT) industry.
Further Economic Resilience Fund (ERF) support announced on 30 June will provide emergency and transition grants of up to £25k to eligible businesses to help meet their operating costs (excluding staff wages) for the period between 1st July 2021 and 31st August 2021.
This will be the final package of emergency support for those that are able to trade, unless Wales re-introduces closure or very significant trading restrictions.
Businesses in the ELT industry with rateable values up to £500k will also benefit from our £380m package that provides retail, leisure and hospitality businesses, and charities in Wales with a year-long business rates holiday – going beyond what has been announced in England.
Looking to the future the Welsh Government is developing funding options to help businesses develop and grow beyond the pandemic. Further details will be announced on the Business Wales website
In addition to the financial support available, the Business Wales service offers support which is tailored according to the business and can be accessed digitally via http://businesswales.gov.wales and social media channels; or through the Helpline on 03000 6 03000 helpline.