Coronavirus - Business Information

Last updated 14 January 2022

Operating safely 

COVID has not gone away.

Government guidance has been updated.

From 10 December face coverings are required by law in most indoor settings including on public transport, in shops and in venues such as cinemas and theatres unless exempt.

From 15 December (subject to parliamentary approval)
The NHS Covid Pass on the NHS App will become mandatory for entry into some venues where large crowds gather. 

You can find the latest guidance for the public at gov.uk/coronavirus

Help for businesses

To help businesses operate safely, the Government has produced guidance on the steps organisations should take to manage risks in their workplace or setting:

Key points for businesses to consider are:

•  Ensure a health and safety risk assessment is carried out which covers COVID-19 – remember that organisations still have a legal requirement to manage risks to those affected by their business.
• Encourage people to use the QR Test & Trace system – whilst this will no longer be a legal requirement, it will support the NHS in tracing those that have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Do not allow those who have COVID-19 symptoms or should be self-isolating to enter your premises – you should ensure staff who have symptoms or are self-isolating do not come into work.
•  Continue with good hygiene practices – provide hand sanitiser and encourage staff and customers to use it and wash their hands regularly.
• Provide adequate ventilation and, where possible, allow fresh air into premises by opening windows and doors.
•  Be aware of the rules for wearing face masks in indoor settings.

Tourism and hospitality businesses may also want to consider the visit Britain 'We’re Good To Go' Scheme, to signal that your business is following national and industry guidelines.

Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant now open for applications 

The government announced the Omicron Hospitality and Leisure Grant on 21 December 2021. It’s aimed at businesses in the hospitality, leisure and accommodation sectors only.

Please note that the government has changed the eligibility criteria from other grants, and we are expected to perform prepayment checks and determine awards by 28 February 2022.

In view of this, the application window will close on 14 February 2022. Applications for this grant must be submitted without delay. 

Find out more on how to apply