It was announced this week that the majority of legal coronavirus measures are set to go as the government confirmed England would move to step 4 of the roadmap to recovery on Monday 19 July.
The legal requirement on facemasks, capacity limits for businesses and 1m-plus social distancing will be among the restrictions lifted next Monday.
The announcement will be welcomed by many businesses who will be breathing a huge sigh of relief after months of lost profits and a hit to confidence, they can now begin to look to the future and start regaining lost revenue.
However, some businesses have raised concerns over the confusing messaging around certain guidelines.
The government are moving away from enforcing legal restrictions and instead suggesting guidance on measures such as face coverings and a “gradual” return to work. Leaving businesses with a dilemma on how to police mask wearing in their premises balancing the health and safety of their customers and staff members.
Businesses are not public health experts and should not be left to decide what is safe and what isn’t, this advice should come from the government and public health bodies. We would expect some sort of definition on what exactly the government mean by a gradual return to work and the best way for businesses the keep their staff safe.
To give companies the full confidence they need to start planning for a rebuild government must clarify what exactly is expected from businesses after July 19 and how they are supposed to operate in a safe and responsible way.
For the latest up to date advice and guidance, please visit our Coronavirus Business Support Hub here hwchamber.co.uk/support/advice/coronavirus-information.