We are really excited to hear the plans of some of our businesses re-opening.
A number of you have contacted us to ask some specific questions with regards to Government guidelines for restaurants and pubs.
The guidelines given are for self-interpretation and Environmental Health have said that at this stage, when visiting they will check what systems are in place and give advice on how to improve if needed.
We know that as businesses you are all taking the health and safety of your customers seriously.
We must all work together to ensure that we prevent a second wave here in Eastbourne.
We’ve spoken to both Eastbourne Licensing and Environmental Health to get the best advice for you.
FAQs are below
1. Can people from two different households dine together? If yes what’s the maximum number of people that can sit at the same table ?
Indoor gatherings are limited to members of any two households (or support bubbles), while outdoor gatherings are limited to members of any two households (or support bubbles), or a group of at most six people from any number of households.
2. Can people sit face to face?
Using back-to-back or side-to-side tables or barriers (rather than face-to-face) whenever possible.
3.It is compulsory ask customer they’re details? If yes how will have to keep them and for how long?
The guidance says “The opening up of the economy following the COVID-19 outbreak is being supported by NHS Test and Trace. You should assist this service by keeping a temporary record of your customers and visitors for 21 days, in a way that is manageable for your business, and assist NHS Test and Trace with requests for that data if needed. This could help contain clusters or outbreaks. Many businesses that take bookings already have systems for recording their customers and visitors – including restaurants, hotels, and hair salons.
4. If a customer refuses to give us his details what we should do?
The guidance isn’t specific about this but they should try to obtain the details as much as possible
5. Should we ask the details of every person that comes in to the restaurant?
Yes as above
6. What is the maximum number of people that can be sited in the restaurant?
The recommended max level of covers is 50% of normal to allow adequate spacing (NB: This is advice from Environmental Health)
7. What should we do in case a customer doesn’t follow the rules or complains about them?
As a business you reserve the right not to serve people if you feel they are putting your staff or others at risk.
8. Can we keep tables that we won’t use?
Yes but it must be clear that they are not in use or to be used
Please do check the Government website as updates are often posted here
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19