Most businesses following virus guidance to 'high standard' in Sandwell
Most businesses across Sandwell are following coronavirus guidelines to a high standard, council chiefs have said.
Sandwell Council's public health team have contacted hundreds of businesses across the borough through phone calls and visits.
And they say the response has been "positive" – with chiefs using feedback from businesses to stamp out any confusion.
It comes as 197 positive cases were confirmed in Sandwell in the seven days up to September 17 – with a rate of 60 per 100,000.
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Lisa McNally, director of public health at the council, said: "The response from businesses has been positive. Our phone calls and visits showed that most businesses are implementing Covid-19 guidance to a high standard and they also allowed the team to recognise and deal with any areas of confusion.
"Being able to build relationships with local businesses is the one positive to come out of the pandemic.
"This new network will not only help now, but also in the future, as we continue to work with local businesses to help improve the health of Sandwell’s working age population."
Councillor Farut Shaeen, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for living healthy lives, said it was essential everyone understands – and follows – the guidance.
She added: "The council is working hard to ensure that businesses understand the guidance, so they can create Covid-safe workplaces for their employees and customers.
"We need to work together as a community to bring this virus under control. It is not over, and I urge everyone to continue to protect themselves and others by social distancing, wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces and washing their hands regularly."
Any Sandwell business where two or more staff test positive for Covid-19 must inform the public health team.
