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17.07.2020 / News / Covid-19

UPDATE: Workplaces reopening, schools reopening, new government powers, and much more

Today the government made a series of announcements that will affect UVW members. These announcements are as follows:

New government powers

Firstly, from the 18th of July, Local Authorities will be granted new powers, these powers will consist of being able to close specific premises, shut public outdoor spaces, and cancel events.

As of next week Central Government will also have new powers and that these will be published next week. These powers will consist of the ability for Ministers to shut down entire sectors and industries in a specific area, implement “stay at home” orders, prevent people entering or leaving designated areas, reduce the maximum size of gatherings beyond the national rules, and restrict transport systems in local areas.

In other words, Central Government will have new powers to implement “local lockdowns”.

Reopening of workspaces

The government announced that on the 25th of July workplaces, such as gyms, indoor swimming pools, and other sports facilities, would begin to open.

And that from the 1st of August government advice on working from home would change. The government said that it would no longer ask employees to work from home and that employers will have greater discretion in determining whether an employee returns to the workplace.

However, the government also added that any return to the workplace should only take place if that workplace is “Covid secure”.

It was also announced that from the 1st of August most leisure settings, such as bowling, skating rinks, casinos and other “close contact” settings will be reopened.

It was also announced that pilots would begin with performances in stadiums to audiences being gradually permitted. This would cover things such as football, theatre, and business conferences.

It was stated that the government is aiming to have these fully reopened by October.

Reopening of Schools and Universities

It was announced that in September all schools, nurseries, and colleges would be open in a full-time capacity.

And that universities are also expected to be open by September – October in a full-time capacity.

Ending shielding of “clinically vulnerable persons”

The government had previously announced that the shielding programme for those deemed “extremely clinically vulnerable” will come to an end by the 31st of July

Today the government reiterated that the programme would be ending by the 31st of July.

Contacting UVW

If you are concerned that any of these measures may affect yourself then you can contact UVW for advice by visiting our Problems at Work webpage and filling in our online form. But before doing that please make sure we have not already answered your query on our Coronavirus webpage.

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