Covid 19 Lockdown Measures Eased

The Prime Minister announced six major steps in easing the Coronavirus Lockdown several of which will have a significant effect on business says Chris Wilkinson from Expert HR Solutions.  The PM said public transport use could resume immediately for everyone in England, and that guidance for employers on staff working from home would change on 1 August and continued he hoped the country would return to "significant" normality by Christmas. 

The measures announced are: 

Public transport 

Anyone can use public transport if they’re wearing a facemask, with the ruling being effective immediately. There are some exemptions to the facemask rule. 

Local lockdowns 

Local authorities in England will have new powers from 18 July, including closing specific premises, shutting outdoor spaces and cancelling events.  He also confirmed that central government would step in if these measures proved insufficient.  In addition to the local “stay at home” orders, government ministers “where justified by the evidence” would be able to: 

• prevent people entering or leaving defined areas; 
• close whole sectors or types of premises in an area; 
• reduce the maximum size of gatherings; 
• restrict transport systems. 

Working from home 

From 1 August the it will be up to employers to discuss with workers whether it is safe to return to the workplace with if you can work from home you should instruction being scrapped. He added that it is for the employer to discuss and demonstrate to their workforce how it is safe to return to the workplace and that working from home remains a safe option. Chris adds that this means employers must first carry out a workplace and individual risk assessment, which Expert HR Solutions can assist with. 

Leisure facilities 

From 1 August, most remaining leisure settings, such as bowling alleys, skating rinks and casinos can reopen.  The restrictions on which treatments can be offered at beauty salons will be removed, while wedding receptions including up to 30 people will be allowed for the first time.  Soft play areas and nightclubs will remain closed until further notice. 

Outdoor sporting events 

From October, audiences will be able to return to stadia for sports and performances, and conferences and other events can recommence, but these changes must be done in a Covid-secure way, subject to the successful outcome of pilots.  

Possible end to social distancing 

Johnson concluded that a significant return to normality may be able to resume in time for Christmas.  He said it may conceivably be possible to depart from social distancing measures by November at the earliest.  Earlier the government announced that the use of face masks in shops will become compulsory in England from 24 July.  Pubs reopened on 4 July, and gyms and swimming pools can reopen from 25 July. 

During his announcement, Johnson also announced an extra ￡3 billion to be invested in the NHS to help prepare for any spike in Coronavirus and that this would help the Nightingale Hospitals to remain open.