Non-essential shops in England to reopen from 15th June

The Prime Minister has confirmed that in England, non-essential retail stores, including Charity shops, will be expected to be able to reopen from 15th June if the Government’s five tests are met and shops follow the COVID-19 secure guidelines, giving them three weeks to prepare.

Businesses will only be able to open from these dates once they have completed a risk assessment, in consultation with trade union representatives or workers, and are confident they are managing the risks. They must have taken the necessary steps to become COVID-19 secure in line with the current Health and Safety legislation.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are set to announce their own plans in the coming weeks.

Our High Streets sit at the heart of each of our communities, and charity shops play a vital role in keeping them alive and vibrant. We have provided our recommendations and guidance to charity retailers in the form of our Reopening Pack, which is being frequently updated, as and when Government guidance becomes available. We are running a series of virtual meetings based on Reopening for members and our Forum contains a wealth of knowledge shared by other members.

For more information, please see here.