This week the rules on self-isolation have changed, meaning that from Monday 16 August fully vaccinated adults and everyone under 18 years old in the UK no longer have to self-isolate for 10 days if they are identified as a close contact of a positive Covid-19 case. Fully vaccinated close contacts will instead be advised to take a PCR test instead of being instructed to self-isolate for the 10-day period.
Some businesses have been faced with staff shortages due to ‘pinged’ workers and have been negatively impacted by this as they try to recover whilst the economy begins to bounce back.
At its peak, nearly 700,000 people in England and Wales were alerted to self-isolate causing staff shortages and major disruption in certain industries such as the food production and delivery sectors.
Now those double vaccinated workers do not have to self-isolate when identified as close contacts, businesses can regain a level of assurance that staff shortages are less likely to disrupt activity and recovery efforts after almost 17 months of restrictions and obstacles to navigate.
This is another step in the right direction as firms begin to regain lost profits and confidence, this will also allow organisations to have self-assurance on the future. The government are still advising people to wear face coverings in crowded areas and limit contact where possible. Businesses should continue to urge caution and demonstrate safe working practices.
For the latest guidance and support, please visit our Coronavirus Business Support Hub here: hwchamber.co.uk/support/advice/coronavirus-information.