The Government has launched a long-term plan to support the evolution and regeneration of high streets. The Build Back Better High Streets Strategy sets out the government’s long-term plan to support the evolution of high streets into thriving places to work, visit and live. As part of the plan, the streamlined pavement licensing system will be extended for 12 months across England so more shops, cafes and restaurants can make use of outdoor areas, with an intention to make this permanent. See the press release for more details.
Risk Assessment & Management Templates
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has published a dedicated page to help businesses carry out COVID risk assessments for staff, customers and contractors, which is now a legal requirement as part of the updated Working Safely During Coronavirus guidance for Step 4 in England. A PDF template is available here.
New Weddings Guidance for Step 4
The Government has published new guidance for people holding weddings from 19 July. Key changes include :
- Removal of legal restrictions on the number of people that can attend a wedding, civil partnership, reception or celebration
- Removal of legal requirements for social distancing including for those from different households/bubbles
- Removal of legal requirement to wear face coverings in any setting
- COVID-secure rules including table service requirements and restrictions on singing and dancing will no longer apply
- All businesses should still follow the principles set out on the working safely guidance, and anyone instructed by NHS Test & Trace to self-isolate must still self-isolate and not attend.
The full guidance can be viewed here.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Guidance Updated
HMRC has updated its CJRS Guidance to state that from 1 August 2021, the Government will pay 60% of wages up to a maximum of £1,875 for the hours the employee is on furlough. Employers must top up employees’ wages to ensure they receive 80% of their wages, up to £2,500, for the hours they are on furlough.
HMRC have also updated their guidance on how to calculate CJRS claims, as well as the template for businesses claiming for 16+ employees.
Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) fifth grant video
A new video has been produced to help those who are self-employed prepare to claim the fifth SEISS grant.
