The latest Covid-19 information from ActSmart
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ActSmart are providing regular news updates on the latest information and advice tailored for retail businesses.
The following information has been published as of today's date. To read the full list of updates visit the ActSmart website here.
ActSmart have been working with partner members of the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) to bring you the most up to date retail focussed advice, particular credit is due to the Association of Convenience Stores, our leading IRC political advocacy partner, for their input.
Prime Minister's Press Conference
Published 20th March 2020
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The PM has said we can turn the tide within the next 12 weeks, but only if we all take the steps we have outlined to reduce the peak of the virus.
- The PM asked for businesses to stand by your employees and workers because we will stand by you.
- Government is in negotiations to buy a so-called antibody test to tell you if individuals have had the disease.
- There will be a further announcement from the Chancellor tomorrow on support for workers.
School Closures and ‘Key Worker' Definition
Published 20th March 2020
The Cabinet Office is expected to confirm that the definition of "Key Workers" in relation to school closures is a public sector or private sector employee who is considered to provide an essential service. It will be the responsibility of schools to validate and implement the measure with the support of government guidance. Further information is expected soon.
Single Use Carrier Bag Charge
Published 20th March 2020
The Department for Food Environment and Rural Affairs is announcing that from Saturday 21 March, for six months, large retailers (over 250 employees) will no longer be obliged to charge 5p for each single-use carrier bag (SUCB) supplied with online deliveries. It is optional for smaller retailers to charge for single use plastic bags, but you may wish to review your existing policy in response to this change of policy. This temporary measure has been taken to help protect the health and safety of customers and delivery drivers. The use of SUCBs will reduce the need for drivers and householders to come into close contact with each other reducing the risk that infection will be passed on and support customers already in self-isolation as the bags will be easier and quicker to collect from the front door.
Coronavirus Bill
Published 20th March 2020
The Government are introducing emergency legislation in parliament today in the form of the Coronavirus Bill, the explanatory notes are available here. The Bill provides general powers to the Secretary of State to require information to issue directions relating to events, gatherings and premises. The legislation allows the Secretary of State to use discretion in enforcing these powers in relation to "preventing, protecting against, delaying or otherwise controlling the incidence or transmission of coronavirus".
Guidance and Support
ACS has provided the latest information on compensatory measures for business and support for employers and colleague safety.