Flooding Hardship Scheme

Additional flood support scheme for businesses not previously eligible for the £7,500 payment or the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme.

The Flooding Hardship Scheme is financed by the Department for the Economy and administered by district councils. The purpose of the scheme is to provide support to businesses, and some other non-domestic premises, that were affected by the flooding at the end of October/early November 2023, but were not eligible for the previous £7,500 payment or the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme (EFSS).

How much support is available?

The Flooding Hardship Scheme has two options which applicants can choose to apply to depending on their situation.

£5,000 Hardship Scheme

This will provide a £5,000 hardship payment to SME businesses and other non-domestic occupants of premises that were flooded and suffered financial hardship but were not eligible for the £7,500 scheme or the EFSS. Public sector premises or premises occupied by political parties/elected representatives are not eligible for support.

£2,500 Hardship Scheme

This will provide a £2,500 hardship payment to SME businesses that were not flooded but were unable to access their premises, as a direct result of the flooding, and hence unable to trade.

How to apply for the Flooding Hardship Scheme

Applicants will need to submit evidence to demonstrate that the business meets the eligibility criteria for the hardship grant. Applicants will also be required to submit appropriate evidence to support their application. This will all be through the online portal SmartSimple. You will need to register your business and complete the organisation profile on the portal then you will gain access to the application.

Apply for the Flooding Hardship Scheme.

Information event

Date: Thursday 21 March 2024
Time: 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Venue: Online
Cost: Free

Register to attend this webinar.

First published 19 March 2024