Covid Update – Social Distancing & Preventative Measures incl. Face Masks

Below is an update on the wearing of face masks which takes effect from 19 July 2021. We appreciate all the efforts colleagues have made since March last year coping with the impact of the pandemic and are grateful for your continued support.

From Monday 19 July 2021, the Government is easing the Covid-19 restrictions and making changes to the requirement to wear a face covering.  

As from then, it will no longer be a legal requirement to wear a face covering, but instead, be a matter of personal choice.  

That said, the Government has issued guidelines stating that wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces is ‘expected and recommended’.

In light of this, the statements below outline the Society’s position with regards to face coverings on our sites.

The Society’s priority, as it has been throughout the pandemic, is the health and safety of our colleagues, members and customers and this will remain the position as we continue to review our policies and procedures on Covid-19.

The current protection measures of screens, where fitted, and use of sanitisers will remain unchanged in all locations.

Customer-facing colleagues

From 19 July 2021 it will be a colleague’s decision to wear a face-covering if they are working behind an enclosed screen and are able to socially distance themselves from other colleagues who may also be working behind the same screen.

Where a colleague is working in an open environment, they are required to continue to wear face coverings unless they are medically exempt.

The Society intends to continue with this approach until the government confirms that all adults in the UK have had the opportunity to receive both Covid-19 vaccinations.

Customers  

From 19 July 2021 point of sale will be implemented in sites that recommend customers wear a face covering when entering one of our premises. Ultimately, it is a customer’s decision whether to wear one or not, so the Society does not expect colleagues to challenge customers who chose not to wear a face covering.

Point of sale where appropriate will also remind customers to stay safe and to respect other customers’ and colleagues’ personal space.

Restrictions on customer numbers in our sites will be lifted, but managers will have the discretion to apply controls where they feel this is appropriate.

Office colleagues

The Society is not encouraging colleagues to return to the office until the Government confirms that all adults in the UK have had the opportunity to receive both Covid-19 vaccinations at which point this decision will be reviewed. However, the offices remain open and colleagues can return to their office location following discussion with their line manager should they choose to.

If you do return to the office the current protocols will remain in place – you do not need to wear a face-covering when at your desk, but if you move around the office a face covering will be required.  

If you have any queries regarding the policy outlined above please speak to your line manager, or contact the HR Advice Line on 01926 516 469 (lines open from 9am - 5pm).