Updated guidance relating to the LCF and COVID-19

17 Jun 2020

In March 2020 we issued a guidance note on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the LCF and Environmental Body (EB) obligations. This guidance was published on our website and sent by email to the main contact of all EBs.

We have reviewed this guidance to ensure it remains relevant and appropriate. The updated guidance note is published to the right hand side of this page, and also on the COVID-19 page of our website. The COVID-19 page sets out a timeline of all ENTRUST advice, guidance and information which has been published and you can also review the March 2020 guidance note on the this page. All updates relating to COVID-19 will be added to the page, as well as published as a news item on our website, and where relevant, emailed to EB main contacts. .

The updated guidance note covers the following subjects:

  • EB reporting requirements - in relation to Notification of Contributions (Form 3), Notification of Transfers (Form 7), and all other reporting requirements;
  • Project arrangements - in relation to project extensions, temporary closure of projects to the public, and project monitoring and visits; and
  • Information for EBs in relation to the approach to guidance levels for administration costs and unspent funds.

The key update has confirmed that no exemption is required for EBs who need to suspent project monitoring and visits. This has been extended from June 2020 to September 2020. Additionally, the guidance note now confirms that we will review, in August 2020, the requirement for a further blanket extension of projects. Specific project extensions may be sought at any time as necessary.

We will keep all guidance under review, in line with the Government advice during this unprecedented time. If EBs have any further questions which are not addressed in the current guidance note they should email helpline@entrust.org.uk