Support package announced for businesses closed due to Covid restrictions A SUPPORT package for businesses in Northumberland forced to close during the latest lockdown has been announced. Northumberland County Council has revealed the package, for businesses in the county which have been required in law to close as a result of the current Covid restrictions. The council said on Thursday that eligible businesses will be contacted by email, with payments covering a six-week period set to be made. The business support package for the lockdown from January 5 onwards includes two elements - the Local Restrictions Support Grant (Closed) Addendum from January 5 to February 15, and a one-off Closed Business Lockdown Payment.