Major firms back latest riot help fund

Major UK businesses and London mayor Boris Johnson have pledged fresh funding for "emergency financial assistance" aimed at small companies hit by the riots.

An initial £3m has been promised under the High Street Fund, which offers "immediate cash support to smaller businesses that have suffered from the disturbances across England", according to a statement from Johnson's office.

Companies that have pledged money, as well as support services, are Barclays, BP, Capita, Deloitte, Lloyds Banking Group, RBS and Santander.

The London mayor has pledged £500,000, with an additional £380,000 from 10 London boroughs, for companies based in the capital.

"It is hoped that more leading companies, as well as individuals, will donate to the fund to ensure that as many small businesses as possible can be helped," the mayor's office said.

"The High Street Fund will provide emergency financial assistance to small businesses that suffered disruption, damage or destruction in the urban riots of August 2011.

"To qualify for funding, a business owner will need to explain what has happened to his or her business, how it happened, and how assistance from the High Street Fund will help get them back on their feet.

"The Fund will offer nationwide support to businesses affected across the country by this month's disturbances."

Capita is running a freephone helpline to help firms apply for grants: 0800 093 5858.

Johnson said: "Small businesses need urgent help to repair damage and get goods back on the shelves and the High Street Fund will help to do just that. I have absolutely no doubt that if we pull together and give our support to the fund we can ensure that London emerges as a stronger and even more prosperous city than before."

The High Street Fund is the latest package of help promised since the riots hit London and other city and town centres earlier this month.

It follows the launch of the £20m London Enterprise Fund for companies in Croydon and Tottenham, and the Government's £20m High Street Support Scheme that promises help with business rates.

• A form to make claims, which can be submitted from Friday 26 August, can be downloaded from www.thehighstreetfund.co.uk​​