What does 'Plan B' mean for the hospitality industry?

Face coverings

Although face coverings will be required by law in most indoor settings from 10 December, the Government has specifically exempted most hospitality settings including pubs, restaurants, bars, cafés, nightclubs, dance halls and discotheques.

NHS COVID-19 pass

From 6am on the 15 December, certain venues will be required by law to ensure all visitors over 18 are fully vaccinated (at the moment that does not include a requirement for a booster jab although this will be kept under review), have proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours, or that they have an exemption.

The use of the NHS COVID pass is required as a condition of entry into the following places:

• nightclubs, dancehalls and discotheques;
• other late night dance venues. These are any other venues that are:
  • open between 1am and 5am;
  • serve alcohol during this time;
  • have a dancefloor (or designated space for dancing); and
  • provide music, whether live or recorded, for dancing.
• indoor events with 500 or more unseated attendees, where those attendees are likely to stand or move around for all or part of the event, such as music venues with standing audiences or large receptions;
• outdoor events with 4,000 or more unseated attendees, where those attendees are likely to stand or move around for all or part of the event, such as outdoor festivals; and
• any events with 10,000 or more attendees indoor or outdoor, such as large sports and music events.

NHS QR code

Businesses are also encouraged to continue displaying the NHS QR codes for attendees wishing to check in using the NHS COVID-19 app, which will alert them if there is an outbreak and so that they can take the necessary action to protect others.

A full copy of the Government’s guidance can be found here.