Written question WQ82736

International English language visitors contribute positively to our visitor economy and Welsh Government appreciates the role English Language schools play within the sector.

Business like these were eligible to access the Business Rate Relief, its associated grants and the Economic Resilience Fund to support them through the pandemic. Those with a turnover of less than £85k who meet the eligibility for the latest round of the Economic Resilience Fund can still apply for funding via their local authorities. The closing date for applications is the 30 June.

Business Wales also has a wide range of non-financial advisory support available. Any business affected is encouraged to visit the Business Wales website https://businesswales.gov.wales or contact the Business Wales helpline on 03000 6 03000. The Business Wales Helpline is available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

On 23 February we also announced an additional £270m for the Development Bank of Wales’ Flexible Investment Fund. This means more than £500m will be available through the fund up to 2030 to support the long term success and growth of our firms, in turn creating and protecting thousands of Welsh jobs. Alternative sources of funding can also be accessed through the Development Bank https://developmentbank.wales

Visit Wales will place a tailored focus on Travel Trade and international recovery within the sectors’ Recovery Plan and will be including any related issues for English language schools as part of this work.

I would encourage ELT businesses to visit our EU transition portal which helps keep business stay connected with Brexit related advice and guidance - https://businesswales.gov.wales/eu-transition-portal/