England to enter new month-long lockdown from Thursday

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a new lockdown across England on Saturday. The lockdown will begin Thursday 5^thNovember and run until December 2^nd, and the government’s furlough scheme will be extended along with it.

This announcement marks a sudden change of direction from Mr. Johnson, who told the country that “no responsible prime minister” could ignore Covid-19’s recent spread. Active cases in the UK have now risen above 1 million, meaning that “unless we act, we could see deaths in this country running at several thousand a day.”

The new restrictions will hit many businesses hard. While schools, universities, construction sites and manufacturing businesses will be allowed to remain open, bars and restaurants will only be able to offer take-out. All non-essential retail businesses (such as travel agents, car washes, and clothing stores) must close. A wide range of “indoor and outdoor leisure facilities” will also be shut, including bowling alleys, gyms, and soft play facilities. Entertainment venues (like concert halls, cinemas and zoos) and personal care businesses (like beauty salons, massage and tattoo parlours, and hairdressers) will also be forced to shut.

For a full list of restrictions, we strongly advise clients to visit the government’s website here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november#businesses-and-venues

Although the impending lockdown is stated to last a month, the spectre of longer closures looms. Mr. Johnson said: “Christmas is going to be different this year, perhaps very different, but it’s my sincere hope and belief that by taking tough action now we can allow families across the country to be together.”

There is no doubt that England – like much of the world – is stuck between a rock and a hard place and a second lockdown will certainly make things tougher for businesses in the coming months. You can give your business the best chance of surviving a second lockdown by taking expert advice. Our experienced and professional team can help you understand the help that is available to you, and put a clear plan in place to ensure you are as protected from the negative effects of lockdown as possible. Call us on 0121 456 0190 to take the first step in keeping your business safe.