The suspension of Masonic Activity will undoubtedly have an affect upon our Masonic Centres and will give rise to a number of concerns.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer in his recent budget announced a raft of measures designed to protect the national economy, and over recent days the Prime Minister has made a series of further announcements outlining aid and assistance available to qualifying businesses and those affected by the Coronavirus Emergency including the availability of reliefs and financial support across a whole range of scenarios.

The measures to support organisations and businesses through the Coronavirus pandemic are many and varied, and in the first instance Masonic Centres should approach their local authority to seek guidance on business rate relief measures and grants that may be available.

The gov.uk website has very helpful guidance on grants, loan guarantees, business interruption loan schemes, tax difficulties, business rate holidays and possible relief from utility bills to ease financial burdens.

Similarly, those Masonic Centres which employ staff can obtain useful guidance, from the same source, in regard to financial support and entitlement to Statutory Sick pay.

The current situation is extremely fluid, and close attention should be given to public announcements and updates on the Government and Local Authority information services.

In some cases Professional Advice may need to be sought to ensure the most appropriate assistance is received.

As GSuptWks I would welcome feedback where relief and assistance has been obtained or otherwise so this can be co-ordinated to assist others where appropriate.