Shopkeepers back new scheme to keep people safe and well through cautious re-opening
A new scheme for businesses to reassure local people as Covid-19 restrictions begin to be lifted has been launched. Local business San Pietro is one of the first to sign up.
While many people welcome the new freedoms, others are worried about the changes – especially at a time when infection rates continue to rise in North Lincolnshire.
Businesses can now further reassure people by following a few simple steps as part of the new Safe and Well Scheme.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Local businesses have spent a great deal of time and money making their premises safe across the past year and a half.
“With public health leaders urging caution, keeping some of these measures in place while infection rates are rising makes sense.
“Keeping screens, providing hand sanitiser and promoting wearing masks are small things which do make a real difference – both in reducing the spread of Covid-19 but also the anxiety that many people will still be feeling.
“We want a prosperous local economy and we want people to return to our shops and venues with confidence – this new scheme provides reassurance that companies are taking safety seriously.”
To be part of the scheme businesses have agreed to:
• Encourage employees to get vaccinated.
• Continue to put in place preventative measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 to protect staff and customers.
• Support Covid-19 testing requirements.
• And promote the use of face coverings.
Businesses will then display the Safe and Well Scheme sticker to show customers and staff they are protecting them.
The scheme complements the activities currently being implemented across North Lincolnshire town centres as part of the Reopening the High Street Safely and Welcome Back Funds to ensure our public feel safe to return to our town centres.
Reopening the High Street Safely and Welcome Back Funds are funded through European Funding and Her Majesty's Government.
Further information can be found on our website.