Council thanks to businesses

The Council is thanking businesses in Blackburn and Darwen which have followed new laws requiring some shops and firms to shut down during the coronavirus emergency.

Public protection officers who have been patrolling the borough have reported that most shops are behaving responsibly in the face of this unprecedented situation.

Premises such as pubs, clubs, betting shops and hairdressers have been asked to close, and retailers which are not classed as essential have to stop trading unless they can trade take orders by phone or internet and deliver instead.

A full list of premises affected can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close

For businesses which are allowed to remain open at the moment (such as manufacturers and exempted retailers) the message is:

• Where possible keep 2m apart from other people
• If someone becomes unwell in the workplace with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature, they should be sent home and advised to follow the advice to stay at home
• Frequently clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, using standard cleaning products
• Employees from defined vulnerable groups should be strongly advised and supported to stay at home and work from there if possible.

Councillor Jim Smith, Executive Member for Environment, said:

Many businesses have been ordered to close during this time to protect the safety and health of the public and their staff. We know this is a worrying time for these firms but I am really pleased to see that most are taking it seriously and are doing the right thing. We are doing all we can to support all businesses in the borough at this time.”

Guidance for these businesses is here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19

Food businesses have been given specific advice by the Government, which is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-food-businesses/guidance-for-food-businesses-on-coronavirus-covid-19

Anyone with concerns over businesses who may not be following guidelines can email: publicprotection@blackburn.gov.uk