skip to main content
Search

Scottish Government Announces Support for Scottish Businesses

Scottish Government has announced a further package of support which will be available for Scottish businesses. 

Published: 19 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Glasgow city street.
Scottish Government has announced a package of support which will be available for Scottish businesses. (Source: Shutterstock)

The package of support will include: 

  • a 75% rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure sectors with a rateable value of less than £69,000 from 1 April 2020 
  • an £80 million fund to provide grants of at least £3,000 to small businesses in sectors facing the worst economic impact of COVID-19 
  • 1.6% rates relief for all properties across Scotland, effectively reversing the planned below inflation uplift in the poundage from 1 April 2020 
  • a fixed rates relief of up to £5,000 for all pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 from 1 April 2020 

Scottish Government Helpline for Businesses in Scotland 

A helpline which will answer questions from business related to COVID-19, providing businesses across Scotland with advice and guidance on COVID-19 has been announced by Scottish Government. 

The business helpline number is 0300 303 0660 and is open Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.  

Other Helpful Links for Scottish musicians 

See all news

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician
An empty conference table with chairs and microphones.

Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live

MU members can watch the FIM International Freelance Conference live online on 21-22 October 2026. Tune in to our livestream to hear international speakers discuss pay, rights, organising, discrimination, portfolio careers and the future of freelance work.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live
A theatre pit at the front bottom of the stage, full of musicians lit by lamps, as the audience takes their seats before the performance.

Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre

Whether you're new to theatre or an experienced composer or sound designer, MU Music Writers' Advisory Board Chair Sarah Sayeed shares practical advice on contracts, fees, licensing and protecting the value of your work.

Published: 13 October 2026

Read more about Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre
All news and features