The government has announced that it will go ahead with easing restrictions in England on 19 July, but what does this mean for small businesses?
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Monday that the government plans to press ahead with Stage 4 of the roadmap.
This means that from 19 July, almost all Covid lockdown restrictions will be lifted in England.
Here’s an overview of what’s changing:
The final decision to lift the remaining restrictions will be made on 12 July, with changes expected to come into force on 19 July.
After restrictions ease, responsibility will shift from the government to employers and individuals when it comes to Covid-19 safety measures.
And the prime minister has said people should “exercise judgement” when it comes to face coverings.
Ultimately this means businesses can set their own rules on everything from desk space and one way systems to mask wearing and working from home policies.
That said, the government has published guidance on how people can manage the risks to themselves and others in a Covid-19 Response: Summer 2021 paper.
Guidance includes:
Understandably, customers may still be anxious about returning to restaurants, pubs, and venues without restrictions.
According to the UK Eating Out Market Report 2021 from Lumina Intelligence, 33 per cent of consumers plan to eat out less frequently than they did before the pandemic.
With that in mind, it’s important to reassure customers that your premises is safe as part of providing good customer service.
For example, you might choose to keep some of the measures in place while people get used to the changes. Whether that’s keeping table service and sanitising stations or continuing to encourage the use of masks, it’ll be up to you and what’s right for your business.
Change can be stressful, so make sure you’re supporting the mental health and wellbeing of your staff too.
Whatever you do, make sure it’s clear on your website and social media so customers know what to expect.
The government has published advice on how to keep your workplace safe as restrictions are eased – it says this information will be updated again on 19 July.
How do you feel about the restrictions being lifted? Let us know in the comments.
Looking for the latest news and features to help you stay ahead? Sign up for our monthly newsletter and get the inside track on the issues that matter to you.
Sign up nowWe create this content for general information purposes and it should not be taken as advice. Always take professional advice. Read our full disclaimer
Keep up to date with Simply Business. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and follow us on social media.
Subscribe to our newsletter6th Floor99 Gresham StreetLondonEC2V 7NG
Sol House29 St Katherine's StreetNorthamptonNN1 2QZ
© Copyright 2022 Simply Business. All Rights Reserved. Simply Business is a trading name of Xbridge Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Registration No: 313348). Xbridge Limited (No: 3967717) has its registered office at 6th Floor, 99 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7NG.