Help may be available for self-employed people affected by the pandemic and unable to access the Government's Self-employed Income Support Scheme.

Copeland council is encouraging them to apply fora Additional Restrictions Grant.

The discretionary scheme is available to help businesses that were forced to close, during the recent lockdown but do not pay business rates, or those that still still traded but have were severely impacted.

A spokesman said: "This scheme is open to all types of businesses that were operating as normal on November 4, including the self-employed affected by the national restrictions.

"Grants are available between £500 and £3000 and are paid during national lockdowns or Tier 3 restriction periods.The scheme will close soon so people are urged to apply as soon as possible."

For more information and to apply go to https://www.copeland.gov.uk/coronavirus-resources-business