Just one per cent of businesses in Harrow could benefit from the latest round of Government funding to help tackle the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Harrow Council is in the process of reviewing applications as part of the Discretionary Grants Fund, which will support companies that were not eligible for funding handed out earlier this year.

However, the administration said the amount of funding given was “a fraction of what’s needed” and, ultimately, will only benefit around one per cent of businesses in the borough.

It explained that it is still hoping for more support from Whitehall, as it believes there are many more businesses in Harrow that could face financial difficulties due to the pandemic.

Those who benefit from the Discretionary Grants Fund will receive £10,000 worth of funding, as decided by the council.

In neighbouring Brent, on the other hand, the council plans to support more businesses but with smaller grants worth £5,000.

The scheme is only open to microbusinesses that employ between two and nine employees, including those who have been furloughed.

Companies must have been trading for at least a year prior to June 1 and their premises must have a rateable value, annual rent or annual mortgage payments of less than £51,000.

Harrow Council explained that any money left over – however unlikely – could be made available for a second round of applications.

Businesses can visit www.harrow.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/support-businesses-employers for more information on the support available during the coronavirus crisis.