Compulsory wearing of face coverings by staff in shops, restaurants, pubs, bars and taxis from Thursday 24 September
In the context of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, a face covering is something which safely covers the nose and mouth. You can buy reusable or single-use face coverings. You may also use a scarf, bandana, religious garment or hand-made cloth covering but these must securely fit round the side of the face. A visor on its own will not suffice.
The Prime Minister has announced the introduction of fines for those who do not comply with the new laws. This means that if you and your staff are not wearing masks you are liable for a £200 fine or even closure of your business if these rules are repeatedly broken. These new laws are in place to protect us all, the spread of Coronavirus has “reached a perilous turning point”. In order to reduce the spread of the virus we must all follow the new rules.
Protect yourself, your customers and your business
You can purchase face coverings from a variety of suppliers, including reusable masks from C21Studio, Fairisle’s Fix It, Otter and Nor who are listed in our directory.
New rules for serving customers in pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes
As of Thursday 24 September 2020, there are also new rules regarding the serving of customers in restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs. This must now all be done via table service. This means that customers are no longer allowed to order at the counter, they must be seated and order with a member of staff visiting them at the table. Takeaway establishments are exempt from this. However, where possible please encourage customers to call you with their order and give them a specific collection time to avoid unnecessary gathering of people in or around your establishment.
Businesses are legally required to take customers’ contact details so they can be traced if there is an outbreak. They can be fined up to £10,000 if they take reservations of more than six, do not enforce social distancing, or do not take customers’ contact details.
Use the Station to Station online business directory to update any of these details regarding your business. If you don’t have a listing yet or need help with updating it, get in touch with us: info@stationtostation.london
Strict new rules on closing times
In addition to the above rules from Thursday 24 September 2020 all pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes will have to close at 22.00 (10.00pm). This means that the doors to your establishment must be closed and all customers must have left the premises. Takeaways must also close their doors at this time to customers from the street, although deliveries can continue after 22.00.
Capture the home working market
The Prime Minister has also announced that if you can work from home you should do so. This means that in our community we may see an increase in residents using the local economy and supporting local businesses. If you have any special offers or promotions that you’d like us to share on your behalf please let us know. You can email us: info@stationtostation.london or use the Whatsapp group to tell us about anything special that you are offering.
