The government has announced that more shops can open from Monday (15 June) and Sandwell Council is putting together a package of guidance and support to help local businesses and shoppers stay safe.

Businesses should only reopen once they have completed a risk assessment, in consultation with trade union representatives or workers, and are confident they are managing the risks.

Employers should also display a notice visibly in their shop windows or outside their store to show their employees, customers and other visitors that they have followed this guidance.

Council Leader Councillor Yvonne Davies said: “More shops can open from next week and the council will be doing all we can to support our businesses’ successful return to trading.

“I would urge people to show support for your local businesses safely – by adhering to social distancing guidelines, shopping in small groups and not gathering in shops or town centres.

“Government has also said that from Monday passengers on public transport must wear a covering over their nose and mouth and we would recommend that you keep it on while you’re out and about – especially inside shops.

“As a business you should be taking the lead in preventing the spread of COVID-19, keeping yourself informed of the rules and guidance to make your customers and staff stay safe.

“We will be publishing all the helpful information we can, starting from Monday – so do look out for these messages on the council website and social media and on local press and broadcast channels.

“We will be talking to business direct where we can and would urge everyone to share the safety messages.”

Initial government guidance is available at:
www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/shops-and-branches
www.businesscompanion.info

Please check your journey plans before driving or taking public transport – it may be quicker to walk or cycle.

Think Sandwell has lots more coronavirus support for businesses on our dedicated pages.