Hundreds of Islington businesses are following new coronavirus rules as everyone urged to do their bit

Islington Council officers have this week visited almost 500 businesses, including pubs, bars and restaurants, to offer help and advice about new Covid-19 rules.

Of businesses visited, 56 per cent are already complying completely with the new rules, and another 24 per cent will fully meet the rules with some further measures.  Another 20 per cent of businesses need to do more work to meet the standard.

Under new rules that came into force yesterday (Thursday 24 September), customers in hospitality venues such as restaurants and pubs must wear face coverings, except when seated at a table to eat or drink, and staff in hospitality and retail must also wear face coverings.  People exempt from face covering obligations, such as because of an underlying health condition, remain exempt.  Pubs, bars and restaurants must close at 10pm, and use table service only. 

Businesses who want help can see advice on keeping your business open safely on the council website.  For further advice contact commercial.envh@islington.gov.uk

Cllr Una O’Halloran, Islington Council’s executive member for community development, said: “It’s clear infection cases are rapidly rising in London, which today was put on the national ‘watchlist’ for the first time.  We all need to do our bit to stop the virus spreading and keep ourselves, our families and loved ones safe.

“A huge thanks to the hundreds of businesses who have worked so hard and are already meeting the new national rules on Covid-19, and to those who are nearly there.

“There are some businesses that do still need to get up to standard – including legal requirements – we are here to give advice and support. We ask businesses to take action and get in touch now – we are ready to help.”