Supporting local business safely: a message from Dr Will

27 Ağustos 2020

We all have a role to play in avoiding a second wave of Coronavirus – that is why Dr Will Maimaris, Haringey Council’s Director of Public Health, is urging residents and businesses to use our high streets responsibly.

Dr Maimaris is warning that the pandemic is far from over, and is urging those visiting shops, restaurants and pubs to ensure they are following the guidance – to wear masks where required, wash hands regularly and keep up the social distancing.

Across the country there have been reports of people flouting the rules, and it is vital that here in Haringey we all work together to protect lives and livelihoods and avoid a local lockdown.

In fact we are already starting to see a rise in the number of cases in London and in Haringey, and we must all act together now to stop any further increases in our borough.

Our enforcement team are on the ground working hard to support businesses and ensure they know the rules.

If you are meeting friends in your garden, or at home, please make sure you follow the rules.

You should only meet people you do not live with in three types of groups:

• you can continue to meet in any outdoor space in a group of up to six people from different households
• single adult households – in other words adults who live alone or with dependent children only – can continue to form an exclusive ‘support bubble’ with one other household
• you can also meet in a group of two households (anyone in your support bubble counts as one household), in any location ‒ public or private, indoors or outdoors. This does not need to be the same household each time.

In the video Dr Maimaris said: “It’s really great that people are supporting local businesses and restaurants and we encourage people to continue to do so.

“However, we have seen some people not following the guidelines and not being respectful of other individuals out on the high street.

“Please remember Coronavirus has not gone away and everyone must play their part in helping to contain the spread of the virus.

“I would also urge our businesses to make sure they have taken the necessary steps to keep their customers safe.

“This is for everyone’s sake and will also ensure that businesses can remain open in the long run and we have a thriving economy and avoid a local lockdown.

“So together we can make a difference in stopping a second wave in Haringey and helping to save lives and livelihoods.”

His message comes as the Government announced that new fines for organisers of illegal raves, unlicensed music events, or any other unlawful gathering of 30 people were being introduced.

They face penalties of up to £10,000, while those taking part in events could be issued with £100 fines up to a maximum of £3,200 for repeat offenders.

To report businesses flouting the lockdown rules visit Haringey’s enforcement team. Please contact: Reopening@haringey.gov.uk