17th June

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16th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

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COVID-19 vaccination: what to expect after vaccination Click Here

 

Updated advice about side effects and added revised version 5 of the English leaflet: Click Here

 

Very common side effects in the first day or two include:

 

• Having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection

 

• Feeling tired

 

• Headache, aches and chills

 

You may also have flu like symptoms with episodes of shivering and shaking for a day or two. However, a high temperature could also indicate that you have COVID-19 or another infection. You can rest and take the normal dose of paracetamol (follow the advice in the packaging) to help make you feel better.

 

An uncommon side effect is swollen glands in the armpit or neck on the same side as the arm where you had the vaccine. 

 

This can last for around 10 days, but if it lasts longer see your doctor. 

 

If you are due for a mammogram in the few weeks after the vaccine, then you should mention that when you attend.

 

Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants

 

The full list of areas in England currently undertaking surge testing has been updated: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: First Minister's statement – 15th June 2021 Click Here

 

The key point from the First Minister’s statement was:

 

“However, given the current situation - and the need to get more people fully vaccinated before we ease up further - it is reasonable I think to indicate now that it is unlikely that any part of the country will move down a level from 28th June.

 

Instead, it is more likely that we will opt to maintain restrictions for a further three weeks from 28th June and use that time to vaccinate - with both doses - as many more people as possible.

 

Doing that will give us the best chance, later in July, of getting back on track and restoring the much greater normality that we all crave.

 

To that end, we will also do three other things next week. And I’ll report on all of this this time next week, when I stand here to give a statement.

 

If our decision is to retain current levels for a further three weeks – and we have to go through the proper process to arrive at that decision – but if that is the decision, we will consider whether any minor changes are possible.”

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AIMS Update Live – Kickstart Scheme – Monday 28th June 10:00

 

In response to enquiries from several members we have arranged with the Department for Work & Pensions to give a presentation on the Kickstart Scheme Click Here to members at 10:00am on Monday 28th June 2021. Please make a note of the date and time in your diaries.

 

Log on details will follow next week.

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers Click Here

 

The recently revised guidance for walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak has now been translated into the following languages:

 

• Bangla - Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Romanian - Click Here

• Slovak - Click Here

• Somali - Click Here

• Welsh - Click Here

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Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

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15th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

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PM statement at coronavirus press conference: 14th June 2021 Click Here

 

These extensions to the rules are only applicable in England

 

“We can simply keep going with all of step 4 on June 21st even though there is a real possibility that the virus will outrun the vaccines 

 

By Monday 19th July we will aim to have double jabbed around two thirds of the adult population including everyone over 50, all the vulnerable, all the frontline health and care workers and everyone over 40 who received their first dose by mid-May. 

 

And to do this we will now accelerate the 2nd jabs for those over 40 – just as we did for the vulnerable groups – so they get maximum protection as fast as possible.

 

And we will bring forward our target to give every adult in this country a first dose by 19th July that is including young people over the age of 18 with 23 and 24 year olds invited to book jabs from tomorrow - so we reduce the risk of transmission among groups that mix the most. 

 

And to give the NHS that extra time we will hold off step 4 openings until July 19th except for weddings that can still go ahead with more than 30 guests provided social distancing remains in place and the same will apply to wakes”

 

We will keep members informed as to any changes announced in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland

 

Vaccination programme accelerated as Step 4 is paused Click Here

 

• All adults aged 18 and over will now be offered a first dose by Monday 19th July, 2 weeks earlier than planned. All adults aged 23 and 24 will be able to book their first dose from Tuesday 15th June.

 

• By Monday 19th July, all those aged over 50 and the clinically extremely vulnerable will have been offered their second dose, and those second doses will have taken effect.

 

• Second doses for all over 40s will be accelerated by reducing the dosing interval from 12 weeks to 8 weeks. All over 40s who received a first dose by mid-May will be offered a second dose by Monday 19th July.

 

Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

You can only use this service if any of the following apply:

 

1. You're aged 23 or over

2. You'll turn 23 before 1st  July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

The government has announced a 4-week pause at Step 3. Step 3 restrictions remain in place, and you should follow the guidance on this page, which explains what you can and cannot do.

 

It is expected that England will move to Step 4 on Monday 19th July, though the data will be reviewed after 2 weeks in case the risks have reduced. 

 

The government will continue to monitor the data and the move to Step 4 will be confirmed one week in advance.

 

However, some restrictions will change on Monday 21st  June. 

 

From Monday 21st June, there will be changes to the rules on:

 

• Weddings and civil partnership ceremonies and wedding receptions or civil partnership celebrations

• Commemorative events following a death such as a wake, stone setting or ash scattering

• Large events pilots

• Care home visits

• Domestic residential visits for children

 

Oral statement on easing of coronavirus restrictions Click Here

 

Speech by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care in House of Commons on the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

 

“Mr Speaker, as we do this, we’ll keep giving people the support they need. We’re extending our asymptomatic testing offer until the end of July.

 

Our aim is that around two thirds of all adults will have had both doses by the 19th of July.

 

And I can tell the House that we have been able to deliver the vaccine programme faster than planned.

 

So we can bring forward the moment when we will have offered every adult a first dose of the vaccine to the 19th of July too.

 

In this race between the vaccine and the virus, we’re giving the vaccine all the support we can.”

 

AIMS advice to all members remains that you get in orders for kits ASAP to take you well past the 30th June as we understand that there is likely to be heavy demand.

 

Surge Testing

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Bracknell Forest Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authority – is deploying extra testing and genomic sequencing in Bracknell Forest.

 

Surge testing will commence on Wednesday (16 June) in one postcode of Bracknell Forest (GU47 0), following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta (B1.617.2) variant. 

 

All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone over the age of 11 in Bracknell Forest who lives or works in this area is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: Click Here

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Slough Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authority – is deploying additional testing and genomic sequencing in Slough.

 

Surge testing will commence on Wednesday (16 June) in certain postcodes of Slough (SL1 3, SL2 1, SL2 5), following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta (B1.617.2) variant. 

 

All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone in Slough who lives or works in these areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: Click Here

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Further support for Birmingham, Blackpool, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Liverpool City region and Warrington to tackle Delta (B1.617.2) variant Click Here

 

Introduction of this additional support will be led by local authorities to ensure the right steps are taken at the right time.

 

Support available to local areas will include:

 

• Additional resources to help local authorities with testing, logistics, planning and workforce to assist with testing, door-to-door visits to engage with residents and other activities – these may come from the Surge Rapid Response Teams, from military aid or other sources depending on requirements

 

• Wastewater testing samples being prioritised for sequencing

 

• Specialist communications support to increase awareness and focus engagement with disadvantaged groups

 

• Maximising vaccine uptake by expanding existing channels, developing new capacity and increasing local and targeted communications to reach different communities

 

• Supervised in-school testing and discretion to reintroduce face coverings in indoor communal areas and classrooms in schools if they and directors of public health decide it is appropriate

 

• Surge testing and enhanced contact tracing

 

Members in Wales

 

Economy Minister confirms further Welsh Government support for businesses impacted by phased move to alert level 1 Click Here

 

Additional funding is now being made available to support businesses affected by the staged transition to alert level 1, due to the impact the delta variant of COVID-19 is having on transmission rates. 

 

The staging takes account of concerns over the impact the delta variant of COVID-19 is having on transmission rates and potential increase in hospitalisations.

 

Support will be available for businesses that have capacity for events of more than 30 people indoors or in contained spaces and to businesses that are still closed because of ongoing restrictions.

 

To receive the funding, businesses will need to have applied to the Welsh Government’s latest round of emergency funding, the deadline for which has been extended until 12pm Wednesday 16th June 2021.

 

For further details please visit the Business Wales website: Click Here

 

And the eligibility checker: Click Here

 

AHDB Webinars 

 

Staying ahead of the curve - Operating in the new norm – NOTE: This is tonight, Tuesday 15th June 7:00 to 8:30

 

Guests will discuss how their businesses have adapted to ensure continued production and performance throughout the coronavirus pandemic, and what future measures they plan to take to build resilience into their businesses.

 

To reserve your place: Click Here

 

Small-scale producer meeting: Pork Box Scheme – Wednesday 16th June 7:00pm to 8:30pm

 

Do you undertake contract kill for small scale producers. Are they looking to start up, or are running their own farm pork box scheme? 

 

This webinar is the perfect opportunity to learn about AHDB’s Pork Box Scheme from key industry experts and an experienced pedigree pork producer.

 

To reserve your place or to encourage pig farmers you work with to reserve their place: Click Here

 

Talking Leaders: Because I can – Thursday 17th June 11:30am to 12:30pm

 

Tim Bradshaw is a British army officer and Everest mountaineer. During this short webinar, Tim will discuss how to deal with a crisis and cope with situations where a carefully laid-out plan has been ruined by factors outside of your control – how you deal with it, how you keep moving forward and how you bring your team with you.

 

For further information and to reserve your place: Click Here

 

Apply for a Kickstart Scheme grant Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

Added a link to a video walkthrough of the online application in the 'How to apply - Apply online' section: Click Here

 

NOTE: AIMS are currently working with the Kickstart Scheme to set up an AIMS Update Live webinar. Details will be circulated by the end of the week.

 

And Finally…

 

On-trade groups report 26% sales dip in May

 

A report in drinks trade magazine, Harpers reports that Britain’s managed bar, restaurant and pub groups recorded a 26% drop in total sales in May compared with the same month in 2019, according to the latest edition of the Coffer CGA Business Tracker: Click Here

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Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

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​

14th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

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Surge Testing

 

Click here for a copy of Strengthened Support Package Communications for workplaces which has been produced by NHS Test and Trace

 

The pack is designed to support organisations in communicating with their workforce in a community that has a strengthened support package (Surge Testing) in place, following a rise in Variant of Concern cases locally. 

 

This may include targeted case finding operations in or near to your workplaces

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Staffordshire Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with Staffordshire County Council – is deploying additional testing and genomic sequencing in Leek (ST13) in Staffordshire.

 

Surge testing will begin on Monday 14th June in Leek following the identification of multiple cases of the Delta (B1.617.2) variant. 

 

All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone age 8 and above who lives or works in Leek is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: Click Here

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Cheshire West Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authority – has deployed additional testing and genomic sequencing in Northwich and Winsford in Cheshire West.

 

Surge testing has now commenced in Cheshire West, following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta (B1.617.2) variant. All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone in Cheshire West, who lives or works in these areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: Click Here

 

PM Boris Johnson's remarks at the first session of the G7 Summit: 11th June 2021 Click Here

 

“We need to make sure we don’t repeat some of the errors that we have made in the course of the last 18 months or so and we put in place what is needed to allow our economies to recover. They have the potential to bounce back very strongly and we have all sorts of reasons to be optimistic, but it is vital that we don’t repeat the mistakes of the last great crisis, the last big economic recession of 2008 when the recovery was not uniform across all part of society.”

 

“I actually think that we have a huge opportunity to do that, because as a G7 we are united in our vision for a cleaner, greener world. A solution to the problems of climate change in all those ideas, in those technologies, that we’re all addressing.” 

 

How to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

All existing translations have been updated and further languages added.

 

• Amharic - Click Here

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Simplified Chinese - Click Here

• Traditional Chinese - Click Here

• Farsi - Click Here

• French - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Kurdish - Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Pahari - Click Here

• Pashto - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Portuguese - Click Here

• Punjabi Gurmukhi -   Click Here

• Punjabi Shahmukhi - Click Here

• Romanian - Click Here

• Shona - Click Here

• Slovac - Click Here

• Somali – Click Here

• Spanish - Click Here

• Sylheti - Click Here

• Tagalog – Click Here

• Tamil - Click Here

• Tigrinya - Click Here

• Turkish - Click Here

• Ukrainian - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated with  information about what to do if you cannot get a post-vaccination status letter Click Here

 

If you ask for a post-vaccination confirmation letter about your COVID-19 vaccination status, but cannot get one, you’ll get a different letter in the post explaining why.

 

This different letter will also tell you what to do next.

 

The information you get in the letter will be in English.

 

If you need to read the letter in another language please follow the links below:

 

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• French - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Italian - Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Nepalese - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Portuguese - Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Romanian - Click Here

• Spanish - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

• Simplified Chinese - Click Here

• Traditional Chinese Click Here

 

For a copy of COVID-19 vaccination status: if you cannot get a confirmation letter (easy read version): Click Here

 

Kickstart Scheme terms and conditions Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated with new terms and conditions that will be effective from Monday 21st June 2021

 

• Kickstart Scheme Grant Funding Agreement: Terms and Conditions for Employers - Click Here

 

This sets out the terms and conditions between DWP and an employer who has applied directly to the Kickstart Scheme.

 

• Kickstart Scheme Grant Funding Agreement: Terms and Conditions for Gateways - Click Here

 

This sets out the terms and conditions between DWP and a Kickstart gateway taking part in the Kickstart Scheme.

 

• Kickstart Scheme Terms and Conditions for Gateways and Employers - Click Here

 

This sets out the terms and conditions which DWP requires to be in place between a Kickstart gateway and their employers.

 

For a summary of the changes: Click Here

 

If you wish to speak with your regional Kickstart advisers please contact tony.goodger@aims2001.co.uk

 

Work-Related Stress: How do you manage increasing pressures at work?

 

Associate Solicitor at AIMS Supplier member, Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) Helen Scott, has written an article on work-related stress, the common causes and how employers can address this health concern. 

 

To read the blog: Click Here

 

The AIMS Lead at Collingwood Legal is Jane Sinnamon. Her contact details are as follows:

Direct Dial: 0191 282 2884
Mobile: 07788586707
Email: jane.sinnamon@collingwoodlegal.com

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

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​

11th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

 

Coronavirus England briefing, 10th  June 2021 Click Here

 

The latest epidemiological data used by the government to brief MPs on the roadmap out of lockdown and to inform local and national decision-making in response to COVID-19 outbreaks has been published. This shows the areas of main concern within England and the progress of the Delta Variant by region. 

 

To see the report: Click Here

 

The British Medical Journal also reported earlier this week that Covid-19: Delta variant is now UK’s most dominant strain and spreading through schools Click Here

 

URGENT REMINDER

 

During yesterday’s FDF Roundtable it was reported that a civil servant at the Department for Health and Social Care is advising that businesses ‘stock up’ with 2 to 3 months’ worth of free lateral flow test kits. This suggests that access to the free kits will cease on the 30th June 2021

 

AIMS Advises that you get in orders for kits ASAP to take you well past the 30th June as we understand that there is likely to be heavy demand as the deadline date approaches.

 

Please visit: Get coronavirus tests for your employees Click Here and place your order.

 

Staffing Issues

 

Several members have reported to us that they are experiencing difficulties with recruiting staff. These in the main are operational staff and drivers. We have also seen correspondence from 3rd party hauliers to members regarding disruption to service caused by a lack of drivers. This could be further compounded by staycation with the roads becoming significantly busier causing traffic delays which will cut into tachograph time.

 

We have raised this issue on behalf of members with Mr Sunak and, through our membership of the FDF Roundtable have come together with other trade associations, including the Road Haulage Federation, to raise the issue with the Prime Minister.

 

We also forcibly made the point with the Food Chain Emergency Liaison Group earlier this week and know that they will be taking this matter up with the Home Office. We have been advised by the Home Office that a change to immigration is only likely where clear evidence of need can be made.

 

Please can members email tony.goodger@aims2001.co.uk with details of any staff issues they are currently facing and the impact that this is having on their business and ability to supply the market.

 

In the meantime we do have the following suggestions for members: - 

 

Hire a Hero Click Here

 

This is a platform which advertises jobs to Ex-Forces staff.

 

We understand that many businesses have used Hire a Hero and find that the people they find via the site are hard-working, punctual, well presented, follow rules etc.

 

I see from the site that at least one meat processing business is currently using the site to try to recruit operational staff

 

Don’t forget to post your job vacancies on the DWP’s Find a Job page Click Here 

 

LinkedIn – There are currently 4000 people looking for work on the site 

 

Have you considered the Kickstart Scheme? Several of our members are using the scheme for staff now.

 

It is interesting to note that the Kickstart Scheme has been streamlined to enable more businesses to now participate directly.

 

You can find details about how the scheme has changed and become more accessible here: Click Here

 

This was also covered in a Government Press Release: Click Here

 

If you wish to speak with your regional Kickstart advisers please contact 

 

Finally, AIMS and other trade associations are currently pushing the Home Office to introduce a Covid-Recovery Visa along the lines of a scheme running in Australia. In short, it is a two year working visa which businesses can use to help get in overseas staff whilst making a commitment to training Australian citizens for roles where they have shortages of staff

 

Please remember, we are here to help and will assist you in any way we can.

 

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

 

Claim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

Further guidance has been added to the webpage on what to do if you’ve missed the claim deadline: Click Here

 

Download a template if you're claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

This template has been updated.

 

Reminder: Claims for furlough days in May 2021 must be made by Monday 14th June 2021

 

Members in Scotland

 

Rapid test kits rolled out to pharmacies Click Here

 

Community pharmacies across Scotland are extending access to rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing kits for people without COVID-19 symptoms.

 

The expansion, which begun earlier this week is aimed at encouraging further uptake of testing among people with no symptoms and finding cases which would otherwise go undetected.

 

Free packs are available to be collected from participating pharmacies, with each containing seven devices which can provide results in around 30 minutes.

 

People can find out which pharmacies are taking part by going to NHS inform, following a link and entering their postcode: Click Here

 

Firms must commit to net zero to win major government contracts Click Here

 

New measures will require businesses to commit to net zero by 2050 and publish clear and credible carbon reduction plans before they can bid for major government contracts.

 

The rules will support the government’s plan to build back greener by ensuring that potential government suppliers publish plans to reduce carbon emissions across their operations in order to bid for major government contracts.

 

Foodservice businesses wanting to win large government catering contracts will need to commit to net zero emissions and publish clear and credible carbon reduction plans or face exclusion from tenders.

 

Prospective suppliers bidding for contracts worth above £5m a year will need to have committed to the government’s target of net zero by 2050 and have published a carbon reduction plan that includes scope 1 and 2 direct and indirect-owned carbon emissions as well as some scope 3 supply chain emissions, including business travel, employee commuting, transportation, distribution and waste. Scope 3 emissions tend to account for the lion’s share of emissions for customer-facing food businesses who operate on client sites.

 

The £5m threshold, which is likely to exclude smaller catering contracts, has been put in place so as not to overly burden and potentially exclude small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from bidding for government work.

​

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

10th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

How to do a coronavirus (COVID-19) rapid lateral flow test at home Click Here

 

The webpage has been updated with information on what to do when you get your result and reporting your results

 

• What to do when you get your result Click Here

 

• Report your result

 

You should report all test results (positive, negative or void) as soon as you do the test, or if this is not possible, within 24 hours. 

 

You can do this online on GOV.UK: Click Here

 

You can also report results by calling 119 (free from mobiles and landlines). Lines are open every day, 7am to 11pm

 

• Reporting all results helps the NHS better understand the spread of COVID-19. Scientists use the information to spot outbreaks more quickly and accurately, helping reduce the risk of future lockdowns.

 

Further measures in additional areas to tackle Delta (B1.617.2) variant Click Here

 

Measures including surge testing, tracing, isolation support and maximising vaccine uptake will be deployed rapidly across Greater Manchester and all Lancashire County Council areas.

 

The list of areas for Lancashire County Council has been updated.

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Kingston Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authorities – is launching additional testing and genomic sequencing in Kingston.

 

This surge testing is being deployed from today (Wednesday 9 June) following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta (B1.617.2) variant.

 

Everyone aged 11 and over who lives or works in this area is strongly encouraged to take a coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the London Borough Kinston-upon-Thames website: Click Here

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

You can now request a COVID-19 vaccination status letter to be posted to you via the NHS.UK website: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

New Covid Testing Centre opens in South Lanarkshire Click Here

 

A new walk-through coronavirus testing centre has opened in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire.

 

The test centre is located at Springwell Neighbourhood Hall (G72 0LL)

 

To view on Google Maps: Click Here

 

PCR tests must be booked in advance at: NHS Inform Click Here or by calling 119. People should only book at test if they have coronavirus symptoms (a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste) or have been instructed to do so by a clinician or NHS contact tracer.

 

Lateral Flow Test Kits are also now available for pick up without an appointment at the majority of our local walk-in or drive-through test sites from 3.30pm each day. 

 

Tests can also be ordered online or by phone by calling 119. 

 

For more information and to order a test kit online, go to: Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested in Scotland - Click Here

 

In Case You Missed It…

 

To read the latest edition of AHDB Abattoir and Processor News has been published: Click Here

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

9th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Further measures in additional areas to tackle Delta (B1.617.2) variant Click Here

 

Measures including surge testing, tracing, isolation support and maximising vaccine uptake will now be deployed rapidly across Greater Manchester and all Lancashire County Council areas. (See Below)*

 

• Introduction of these additional measures will be led by local authorities to ensure the right steps are taken at the right time.

 

• Testing, isolation and vaccinations will – in combination with existing guidance such as hands, face, space and fresh air – help suppress and control the spread of the virus and variants.

 

• As part of the package, there is extra guidance on steps people can take, such as minimising travel in and out of the affected areas, to keep their loved ones and their communities safe.

 

Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency Dr Jenny Harries said:

 

“This variant is now the dominant strain of this virus across the UK, with cases continuing to rise in some areas. The most important thing that people in these areas can do is remain cautious, work from home if possible and remember to practise hands, face, space and fresh air.”

 

Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here

 

The webpage has been updated to include areas where the new COVID-19 variant is spreading fasted. 

 

In these areas, as well as deploying surge testing, there is additional support, such as targeted activity to drive vaccine uptake.

 

These areas include: 

 

Bedford Borough Council - Click Here

London Borough of Hounslow - Click Here

North Tyneside Council - Click Here

*Greater Manchester Combined Authority - Click Here

Bolton - Click Here

Bury - Click Here

Manchester City - Click Here

Oldham - Click Here

Rochdale - Click Here

Salford - Click Here

Stockport - Click Here

Tameside - Click Here

Trafford - Click Here

Wigan - Click Here

 

*Lancashire County Council - Click Here

Burnley - Click Here

Chorley - Click Here

Fylde - Click Here

Hyndburn - Click Here

Lancaster - Click Here

Pendle - Click Here

Preston - Click Here

Ribble Valley - Click Here

Rossendale - Click Here

South Ribble - Click Here

West Lancashire - Click Here

Wyre - Click Here

 

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council - Click Here

Kirklees Council - Click Here

Targeted Testing is also being carried out in the following areas:

Calderdale Council - Click Here

Leicester City Council - Click Here

Brent Council - Click Here

Ealing Council - Click Here

Harrow Council - Click Here

Hillingdon Council - Click Here

Redbridge Council - Click Here

Sefton Council - Click Here

Hampshire County Council - Click Here

Reading Borough Council - Click Here

Wokingham Borough Council - Click Here

Warwickshire County Council - Click Here

Derbyshire County Council - Click Here

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council - Click Here

 

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

The website has been updated with added guidance for people living in areas with variants of concern: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: First Minister's statement – 8 June 2021 Click Here

 

The key points from the First Minister’s statement are as follows

 

“Last week, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved the Pfizer-scs vaccine for use among 12 to 15 year olds.

 

That is good news, as it indicates that the vaccine is safe for use in children of that age.

 

The Scottish Government is now awaiting advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization on the vaccination of children in those age groups.

 

It is vital that we rely on expert advice in all of our vaccination decisions.

 

However, vaccination may well be an important way of giving children greater protection, minimising any further disruption to schooling, and further reducing community transmission of  COVID.

 

And so I can confirm that if the JCVI does recommend the use of the vaccine for children aged 12 and over, we will move as quickly as practically possible to implement their advice.”

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): driving tests Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated with additional information about how to change or cancel a driving test from Thursday 17th June 2021 if you cannot go because of COVID-19.

 

If your driving test is on or after 17 June 2021, you need to email Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) if you cannot go for your test because you’re self-isolating.

 

Email DVSA with the subject title ‘COVID-19 short notice cancellation’.

 

Include 2 of the following in your email:

 

• Your driving licence number

• Your theory test pass certificate number

• Your driving test booking reference

 

DVSA customer services: customerservices@dvsa.gov.uk

 

DVSA will then rearrange your test and send you the new details.

 

DVLA Coronavirus (COVID-19) update Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

NOTE: Ongoing industrial action at the DVLA will also cause delays in processing paper applications and for customers trying to contact us.

 

Chronos

 

At last week’s FSA Strategic and Technical Industry Call, Jason Aldiss from AIMS asked the question in respect to Chronos and whether food business operators are permitted to access Chronos, and if not, why not? 

 

A second point is that our members are reporting that audits are being produced basically on the basis of the Chronos recordings, and we would like to see a more independent approach to the audit process whereby the actual premises are audited rather than the OVs recordings of their findings during the audit period. 

 

Laureano Garcia-Munoz (FSA) - It is because of the Covid situation under remote working. They may have been using those entries in Chronos as the primary source for the audits, but they should have also considered the situation on the premises. We have our local meeting tomorrow, so we will discuss then and take into consideration to make sure that all parties know what happens now and is also reflected on the audit report. 

 

Jason Aldiss (AIMS) - It would be ideal if those were able to log in and have their own log into it, even if that's controlled access maybe, but still their own personal login is really what we are after. 

 

Jane Clark (FSA) - It was the references to the sophisticated IT systems and would be good if we could capture this and send to the OPS transformation program for consideration for the future data sharing and management. Would be really helpful to understand that there has been this demand from FBO'S and how we might take that into OPS transformation. 

 

Darren Whitby (FSA) - There are instances where Chronos data has been shared with FBO's on a periodic basis, so it is about understanding how that could be rolled out more practically in the future. 

 

A post meeting note  was received from Robert Locker (FSA): Chronos is the record of enforcement in all plants – OVs have a responsibility to make FBOs aware of any enforcement (verbal through to investigations’) and nothing in Chronos should be a surprise. FBO access to Chronos is not currently available because within Chronos there is access to commercial, private, and personal details from any FBO. 

A printout of the individual FBO record of Chronos is possible and can be requested through their OV

 

We advise all AIMS abattoir members to ask their OV for a copy of their Chronos report daily.

 

We are also keen to get feedback from AIMS Abattoir owning members as to whether they’d like to be provided with a unique log on from Chronos to enable you to access your details at any time. If you’d like to comment please email office@aims2001.co.uk

 

And Finally…

 

Economies of ale: pubs in the time of COVID-19 Click Here

 

More than a year ago, social restrictions were put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). 

 

This has affected businesses such as the Great British pub, which were forced to close. 

 

The Office for National Statistics analysis of business performance and confidence shows the impact of those closures and how confidence is just beginning to return to the industry.

 

To read the full report: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

8th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Covid-19 Update – 7th June 2021 Click Here

 

The Health Secretary updated the house yesterday. The above link is to Hansard.

 

The key points were as follows:

 

• “From tomorrow morning, we will open up vaccination to people aged 25 to 29. Over the remainder of this week, the NHS will send texts to people in those age groups, and, of course, GPs will be inviting people on their list to come forward.

​​

• Over the past week, we have seen case rates rise, particularly in the north-west of England, but we know also that our surge testing system can help hold this growth.

​​

• It is still too early to make decisions on step 4. The road map has always been guided by the data and, as before, we need four weeks between steps to see the latest data and a further week, to give notice of our decision. So we will assess the data and announce the outcome a week today, on 14th June.

​​

• I have asked the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, the committee that advises us on immunisations, to come forward with clinical advice on vaccinating 12 to 17-year-olds, and we will listen to that clinical advice, just as we have done throughout the pandemic.”

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Calderdale Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authorities – is launching additional testing and genomic sequencing in Calderdale. Additional testing is being offered in the Todmorden, Park and Warley wards of Calderdale.

 

This surge testing is being deployed from Tuesday 8th June 2021 following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant. 

 

All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone aged 12 and over who lives or works in these areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: Click Here

 

To read further details of areas in England where Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants: Click Here

 

Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

You can only use this service if any of the following apply:

 

• You're aged 25 or over

 

• You'll turn 25 before 1st  July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

 

REMINDERS

 

• Submit your CJRS claims for May

 

If you haven’t submitted them yet, you must do so by the deadline of Monday‌‌ ‌14th ‌ ‌June.

 

You can claim 80% of your furloughed employees’ usual wages for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,500 per month (these limits will also apply to claims for June).

 

• Changes to the CJRS from July

 

The UK Government will continue to pay 80% of your furloughed employees’ usual wages for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,500 per month, to the end of June.

 

In July, CJRS grants will cover 70% of employees' usual wages for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,187.50. In August and September, this will then reduce to 60% of employees’ usual wages up to a cap of £1,875.

 

You will need to pay the 10% difference in July, and 20% in August and September, so that you continue to pay your furloughed employees at least 80% of their usual wages for the hours they do not work during this time, up to a cap of £2,500 per month.

 

• VAT deferral – join online by 21‌‌ ‌June

 

The VAT deferral new payment scheme is open for all businesses who deferred paying VAT due between 20th March‌‌ ‌and 30th ‌June 2020 and were unable to pay in full by 31st March‌‌ ‌2021.

 

Monday 21st ‌‌ ‌June is the last day you can join this scheme. If you join by this date you can apply to spread these payments across up to eight instalments.

 

For more information and to join the scheme visit: Pay VAT deferred due to coronavirus (COVID-19) - Click Here

 

Members in Wales

 

“No-one left behind” as Wales’ incredible vaccine programme moves forward Click Here

 

All over-18s will be offered a Covid vaccine by the start of next week, First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced.

 

“We will make the offer of vaccination to all eligible adults six weeks ahead of schedule and we expect to reach 75% take-up across all priority groups and age groups a month ahead of target.”

 

For more information visit the ‘Getting your Covid-19 vaccination’ website: Click Here

 

Free Webinar: Countdown to declarations: importing goods from the EU – Thursday 17th June 11:00 to 12:00

 

Businesses importing goods from the EU need to prepare to complete customs declarations over the next few weeks. 

 

Traders bringing goods into Great Britain from the EU since the start of 2021 have been able to delay completing declarations for their import by 175 days from the date of their goods movement. 

 

This deadline is fast approaching for businesses that imported goods in January. 

 

On 17 June 2021, the IOE&IT is hosting a free webinar guiding traders though these new rules and deadlines. 

 

Experts will also give practical advice about what traders can do to prepare for these changes – including using the new Digital Trader Service to complete declarations.

 

To register for your free place: Click Here

 

CIPD Webinar

 

The CIPD webinar on Managing multicultural teams scheduled for Thursday 10th June 2021 has been postposed and rescheduled for Monday 28th June at 12:30. If you have previously booked a placed you will need to rebook: Click Here

 

The rapid shift to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated an increase in multicultural teams. This has highlighted key communication challenges and the need for managers to adapt to these changes.

Join our webinar to hear from a panel of UK and international experts how managers can positively influence culturally diverse teams, and how to successfully manage an increasingly hybrid workforce. CIPD research associate Jake Young will discuss the findings of his recent research into multicultural teams, including how to maximise their remarkable potential for innovation. The panel will also share insights learned from managing diverse teams in international organisations. The session will also consider the unique ways in which the increasing adoption of remote working looks set to affect multicultural teams in the future.

 

If you hadn’t reserved a place for the event which has now been postponed but would like to book a place for the rescheduled webinar: Click Here

 

Check how many coronavirus cases are there in your area.

 

The BBC website now includes a postcode checker which can be used to see how cases, vaccinations (and deaths) there have been in specific areas. To use the site: Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

The new ACAS corporate strategy 2021 to 2026 Making working life better ​​for everyone in Britain has been published: Click Here

 

The strategy sets out how we will do so, built around the delivery of 4 ambitions:

 

1. Growing our reach and access: By 2025, we will have reached twice as many small and medium sized businesses, and twice as many employees. In doing so, we will have prioritised sectors where issues are more prevalent and union representation is low, and we will have reached customers all over the country.

 

2. Resolving disputes more quickly and effectively: By 2025, we will be resolving three out of every four disputes before they reach a costly employment tribunal, as a result of earlier and more effective conciliation and a fuller understanding of all the possible paths to resolution.

 

3. Forging consensus on the future of work: By 2025, we will have new approaches to predict and respond to challenges in the world of work, working with partners to shape a better future. We will share our knowledge, data and insight to help us to build healthy work and prosperity for people, places and society.

 

4. Embracing difference, increasing inclusion, creating fairness: By 2025, creating fair and inclusive workplaces will be at the heart of everything we do. Our services will be inclusive and accessible to all. We will be promoting diversity and inclusion in Britain’s workplaces and our own will reflect the values, and diversity, of modern Britain.

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

7th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Surge Testing

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Reading and Wokingham Click Here

 

Additional testing is being offered in the RG1 3, RG1 5, RG1 6 and RG1 7 postcodes in Reading and in the Bulmershe and Whitegates, Evendons, Norreys, and Wescott areas of Wokingham.

 

This surge testing is being deployed following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta variant first identified in India. All the confirmed cases have been contacted and instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone aged 12 and above who lives or works in these areas is strongly encouraged to take a coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the council’s website: 

 

• Reading Borough Council: Click Here

 

• Wokingham Council: Click Here

 

Surge testing being deployed in Bradford, Canterbury and Maidstone Click Here

 

Additional testing is being offered in the CT1 and CT2 postcodes in Canterbury, the ME14 1 postcode in Maidstone and targeted areas within Bradford.

 

This surge testing is being deployed following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta variant, B1.617.2. All the confirmed cases have been instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.

 

Everyone who lives or works in these areas, including children aged 12 and over in Canterbury and Maidstone, and 11 and over in Bradford, is strongly encouraged to take a coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the Council’s website: 

 

Bradford MBC: Click Here

 

Canterbury City Council : Click Here / Kent County Council: Click Here

 

Maidstone Town Council: Click Here / Kent County Council: Click Here

 

Major testing drive ahead of return to schools next week Click Here

 

As half term comes to an end, the Education Secretary is urging students and their families to take a test before returning to the classroom.

 

Everyone is encouraged to test twice a week, with one of the two tests at the weekend to catch cases before starting the new school week. Testing before returning to school after the half-term break will be particularly important after mixing with different groups over the break.

 

Anyone not working from home is encouraged to follow a similar routine.

 

Members in Wales

 

First Minister confirms phased move to alert level one Click Here

 

The First Minister has announced that up to 30 people will be able to meet outdoors and large outdoor activities will be able to take place from Monday 7th June 2021, as Wales moves into alert level one: Click Here

 

The move to alert level one will be phased, with outdoor events opening first. Ministers will review the public health situation again, ahead of 21st June , to determine whether indoor events can restart.

 

The two-stage approach will enable more people to be vaccinated – and complete their two-dose course – amid growing concerns about the spread of the delta variant (The new name for the Indian Variant) of the virus across the UK.

 

Important message for residents of Llandudno Junction, Llandudno and Penrhyn Bay after sharp increase in cases of variant of concern – Get Tested Now - Click Here

 

Public Health Wales, Conwy County Borough Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board are urging people living in the Llandudno Junction, Llandudno and Penrhyn Bay areas of North Wales to be alert for Coronavirus symptoms and to take a test as soon as possible even if they have no symptoms

 

• For residents without symptoms - LFD tests are available for collection from the Mobile Test Unit at Ysgol Awel y Mynydd Sarn Mynach, Llandudno Junction, Conwy, LL31 9RZ.  This is a walk in/drive through centre, no appointment is necessary and is open from 0800 – 2000 (closed between 1300-1400).

 

• Anyone with symptoms should go to Conwy Business Centre, Junction Way, Llandudno Junction, LL31 9XX for a PCR test.  This is a walk in/drive through centre, no appointment is necessary and is open from 0800 – 2000 (closed between 1300-1400).

 

Members in Scotland

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: First Minister's statement - 4 June 2021 Click Here

 

“Now there is one further change that I want to highlight today, which takes effect from Tuesday and that relates to travel overseas, and again as you’ll have seen in the news, Portugal has been transferred from the green list for international travel to the amber list.

 

So anyone who returns to Scotland from Portugal from Tuesday onwards, will be required to self-isolate at home for 10 days, and to take two PCR tests during this period

 

Fundamentally, though and I want to stress this point, the Scottish Government’s basic guidance on international travel remains unchanged. If you don’t have to travel at the moment, if your journey is not essential, then please don’t. Travel does, unfortunately, create an additional risk that we bring new variants of the virus into the country.”

 

“If you are aged between 18 and 29, you can now register online to make sure your details are all up to date. So please do that too.

 

More information on how to do all of that can be found on the vaccinations section of the NHS inform website.” Click Here

​

Information for UK recipients on Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine Click Here

 

The UK regulator has approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine (mRNA Vaccine BNT162b2) in children aged 12-15, saying it is safe and effective in this age group and the benefits outweigh any risks.

 

The MHRA said it had carried out a "rigorous review" of the vaccine in adolescents.

 

The UK's vaccines committee will now decide whether children should get the jab.

 

COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine BNT162b2 is not recommended for children under 12 years.

 

Lockdown rules: What are the restrictions in your area?

 

With the rules now quite varied across the UK and some areas with more rules than others we spotted a postcode finder on the BBC website where you can check what the rules are in your part of the UK.

 

To access: Click Here

 

NOTE: Coronavirus latest news: Vaccines to be rolled out to under-30s this week, Matt Hancock says

 

The coronavirus vaccine programme will be rolled out to people under the age of 30 for the first time this week, Matt Hancock announced during an interview with Sky News (6th June)

 

The Health Secretary said the next move down the age range will bring the country "a step closer" to vaccinating all adults in the UK and "restoring our freedoms".

 

The Government has set a target for every adult in the UK to be offered a first dose by the end of July.

 

Once this change is announced on the NHS Vaccine website we will inform members via an AIMS Update.

 

And Finally….

 

Leading dating apps partner with government to boost vaccine uptake Click Here

 

Leading dating brands including Tinder, Match, Hinge, Bumble, Badoo, Plenty of Fish, OurTime and Muzmatch have teamed up with the government to encourage their users to get COVID-19 vaccinations through a new campaign.

 

From today, the country’s leading dating brands will add new features to their apps and websites to support the government’s ‘every vaccination gives us hope’ campaign. The campaign encourages younger people to get their vaccine in the second phase of the rollout, and join the millions who have already received their jabs.

 

The new features will allow users to show their support for the vaccine on their dating profiles and give in-app bonuses to those who say they are vaccinated.

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

4th June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Surge testing to be deployed in Derbyshire Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authority – is launching additional testing and genomic sequencing in Gamesley Ward, High Peak in Derbyshire.

 

Everyone aged 5 and over who lives or works in this area is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test from today, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the Derbyshire County Council website: Click Here

 

Portugal moved to amber list to guard public health against variants of concern following first traffic light review Click Here

 

From 4am Tuesday 8th June 2021 Portugal (including Madeira and the Azores) will be moved to amber list due to variants of concern and emerging mutations

 

A further 7 countries added to the red list, again from 4am Tuesday 8th June. These are: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Costa Rica, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Sudan, and Trinidad and Tobago

 

For the full Green List: Click Here

 

For the full Amber List: Click Here

 

For the full Red List: Click Here

 

Find examples to help you calculate your employees' wages Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

The example for how to calculate the amount you should claim for an employee who is flexibly furloughed during June 2021 has been updated: Click Here

 

Department for Industry, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS)

​

Calling all small businesses to lead the charge to net zero

​

The Together for Our Planet ‘Business Climate Leaders’ campaign encourages small and micro businesses to commit to cutting their emissions in half by 2030 and to net zero by 2050 or sooner through the new UK Business Climate Hub: Click Here

Small businesses can use the hub to find practical tools, resources and advice to understand their emissions and develop a plan to tackle them, as well as providing ideas for steps they can take. 

 

NOTE: There is considerable discussion about businesses reducing their emissions and carbon footprint through their supply chains. We were on a call with the CBI Yesterday in relation to COP26 and the point was made over and over again that (a) you should with your supply chain about how they are reducing their impacts and (b) to ensure that you are promoting what you are doing with your customers as they too will be looking to reduce their environmental impacts.

 

“The planet needs significant science-based action to create a sustainable low-carbon future, so we are committed to decarbonising our own operations by 2030 and working with our suppliers to halve theirs too” Tweet posted by Diageo yesterday

 

The campaign was launched last Friday by the Prime Minister and Business Secretary: Calling all small businesses to lead the charge to net zero - Click Here

 

BIES have asked that we share the toolkit with members: Click Here

 

CBI: 'Countdown COP26: how to be a business trailblazer' 

​

Earlier this week AIMS attended the CBI Countdown COP26 webinar. The speakers were John Foster (Director of Policy and Communications, CBI), Andrew Griffith MP (UK Net Zero Business Champion), Marte Borhaug (Global Head of Sustainable Outcomes, Aviva Investors) and Andy Wood (Chief Executive, Adnams).

In the session, they looked ahead to COP26 and explore the many ways - big and small -  that businesses can take action on climate change.

You can watch the session again in full, on-demand: Click Here

 

The next free to attend CBI Webinar is at 10:00 on Monday 7th June and will be on 'Helping your business transition to new ways of working'. 

 

For further information Click Here and to register: Click Here

 

Members in Wales

 

Welsh Government briefing session on the UN’s Climate Change Conference of the Parties  (COP26)  Thursday 10th June – 15:00-16:00

 

The Welsh Government are looking to run a short briefing session to highlight what we know today about this year’s COP, along with views from Paul Allen from the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) centre who have previously attended. 

 

Agenda

 

• Welsh Government overview of COP26 – what we know so far

• View from a past participant

• Q&A 

 

If you would like to attend please Click Here on Thursday 10th June – 15:00-16:00 to hear the live session.

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): safer travel guidance for passengers Click Here

 

The Easy Read version of the guidance has been updated: Click Here

 

How to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

The Easy Read version of the guidance has been updated: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

3rd June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable Click Here

 

The guidance: Click Here has been updated into the following languages:

 

Arabic: Click Here

Bengali: Click Here

French: Click Here

Gujarati: Click Here

Polish: Click Here

Portuguese: Click Here

Punjabi: Click Here

Simplified Chinese: Click Here

Traditional Chinese: Click Here

Urdu: Click Here

 

REMEMBER: Get coronavirus tests for your employees Click Here

 

• You can order free rapid lateral flow tests until Wednesday 30th June 2021.

 

AIMS Advises that you get in orders for kits ASAP to take you past the 30th June as we understand that there is likely to be heavy demand as the deadline date approaches.

 

AHDB Beef & Lamb News – June 2021

 

The June edition of AHDB’s Beef & Lamb news is now available: Click Here

 

This month’s covers the market outlook for beef and lamb, BBQ Marketing and the recent digital workshop for exporters.

 

Members in Wales

 

Download a template if you're claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Click Here

 

The guidance for how to complete and upload a template with the details of the employees you're claiming for (on or after 27 May 2021) is now available in Welsh: Click Here

 

Contact tracing in Wales extended until March 2022 Click Here

 

Wales’ successful Test, Trace, Protect service, which has helped to reduce the spread of coronavirus, will be extended to next year, with a further injection of Welsh Government funding.

 

The Welsh Government is also today launching a refreshed Test, Trace, Protect strategy, which sets out how the service will adapt and respond to the pandemic in the months ahead: Click Here

 

The new strategy will work to strengthen and enhance the tracing of variants of concern and the management and quarantine of people returning to Wales from red and amber-list countries. The service will also provide more tailored support to people who need to self-isolate.

 

And Finally….

 

AIMS Supplier Member, Roythornes Solicitors (www.roythorne.co.uk) have published their latest 1 – 2 – 3 interview. This time it’s with Simon Pattinson who co-founded Montezuma’s Chocolates with his wife Helen over 20 years ago, having jumped ship from life as lawyers.  

 

Starting up with only a kitchen sink sized machine and one shop in Brighton, the business has now developed a multi-channel model through UK and International distribution, online and retail; always retaining the essential focus of ‘business done properly’. 

 

To read the interview: Click Here

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

2nd June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme

 

Check if you can claim a grant through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

• Claims for the fourth SEISS grant have now closed. The last date for making a claim for the fourth grant was 1st June 2021.

 

• The online claims service for the fifth grant will be available from late July 2021 – See Below

 

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme fifth grant Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

• A fifth grant covering May 2021 to September 2021 will be open to claims from late July 2021.

 

• The grant is taxable and will be paid out in a single instalment.

 

• Guidance for claiming the grant will be available by the end of June 2021. We will ensure that this is covered in a future AIMS Update

 

Don’t Forget - New vaccine toolkit for employers

​

The Department for Health has launched a new toolkit for employers to help ensure employees get reliable information about COVID-19 vaccines. Several major businesses, including Asda, IKEA and Santander, have already pledged to promote vaccine uptake with their employees and to allow flexibility for staff to get vaccinated during work hours.

​

To access the toolkit to get materials for you to run internal awareness campaigns promoting the benefits of vaccination, including key messages, posters, fact sheets and videos providing accurate up to date information. Click Here

 

The government is calling on as many employers as possible to join the campaign and support the efforts to continue to bring the nation out of lockdown.

 

Members in Scotland

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Protection Levels allocation to local councils – 1st June 2021 Click Here

 

From 00:01 on Saturday 5 June the following changes in the protection levels will come into effect.

 

• Glasgow should move to Level 2, the positive trends first seen last week having been confirmed

 

• A group of 13 mainland authorities should remain in Level 2, taking account of a range of indicators including current case-rates, test positivity, and vaccination rates. These are (by Health Board area):

 

• East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire

• East, North, and South Ayrshire

• North and South Lanarkshire

• Edinburgh and Midlothian

• Stirling and Clackmannanshire

• Dundee

 

• A group of 15 mainland authorities should move to Level 1, taking account of a range of indicators including lower relative and absolute numbers of cases, generally higher vaccination rates, low hospital occupancy in the relevant Health Boards and low mortality. These are:

 

• Highland; Argyll and Bute

• Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, and Moray

• Angus; Perth and Kinross

• Inverclyde and West Dunbartonshire

• Falkirk

• Fife

• West Lothian and East Lothian

• The Scottish Borders

• Dumfries & Galloway

 

• The islands currently in Level 1 should move to Level 0, taking account of a range of indicators including current case rates, test positivity, vaccination rates, hospitalisation and mortality trends, and noting also the generally lower level of travel to and from these areas, compared to mainland areas, and the opportunity to enhance testing and contract tracing for these areas and in relation to transport links to and from them 

 

To check the Coronavirus (COVID-19) protection levels: what you can do: Click Here

 

CIPD Coronavirus webinar series: Managing multicultural teams

 

“The rapid shift to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated an increase in multicultural teams. This has highlighted key communication challenges and the need for managers to adapt to these changes.

Join CIPD webinar to hear from a panel of UK and international experts how managers can positively influence culturally diverse teams, and how to successfully manage an increasingly hybrid workforce. CIPD research associate Jake Young will discuss the findings of his recent research into multicultural teams, including how to maximise their remarkable potential for innovation. The panel will also share insights learned from managing diverse teams in international organisations. The session will also consider the unique ways in which the increasing adoption of remote working looks set to affect multicultural teams in the future.”

 

The Webinar is on Thursday 10th June 2021 at 12:30 and is free to attend.

 

To register for a place: Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

1. What level of obligation is required by an individual to be classed as a “worker”?

 

AIMS Supplier Member, Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) have produced a short blog about what level of obligation or commitment is required by an individual to be classed as a worker in employment law.

 

To read the blog: Click Here

 

2. One in four licensed premises yet to reopen 

 

Drinks trade title Harpers have a report from AlixPartners CGA Market Recovery Monitor which shows One in four — just under 25,000 — of Britain's licensed premises have yet to reopen despite the return of inside service. The report indicates similar trading numbers in England (76.6%) and Scotland (77.4%), with a notably slower return in Wales (69.6%).

 

Moreover, the Monitor shows that slightly more pubs have reopened than restaurants, with around nine in 10 high street pubs (92.9%), food pubs (91.8%) and community pubs (89.6%) now back trading, alongside 89.2% of casual dining and other restaurants.

 

To read the full article: Click Here

 

To see the AlixPartners CGA Market Recovery Monitor website: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

1st June

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

FCO Travel Advice – France Click Here

 

Travel between the UK and France

 

From Monday 31st May 2021, travel to France from the UK is permitted only for EU nationals, French residents, or those travelling for essential reasons. 

 

This applies to all air, car, ferry and train passengers.

 

Arrivals from the UK who are resident in France may need to show proof of residence. 

 

Those who are not French residents or EU nationals will need an essential reason to travel and to complete an International Travel Certificate: Click Here

 

Further information is available on the French government’s website: Click Here

 

Arrivals from the UK will need to complete a ‘sworn statement’ (déclaration sur l’honneur) form self-certifying they are not suffering from symptoms associated with coronavirus and have not been in contact with confirmed cases in the preceding fortnight.

 

EU Settlement Scheme - Only 30 days left to apply

 

Today, Tuesday 1st June, there are now only 30 days to go until the deadline of 30th June 2021 for applications to be made to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

 

All EU, EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members who were resident in the UK by 31st December 2020, should apply without delay on the EU Settlement Scheme Website: Click Here so that they can continue to work, study, and access free healthcare and benefits in the UK after 30th June 2021. 

 

As an employer it is not your responsibility to make sure your EU employees have applied, but you can play a role by reminding them of the approaching deadline and cascading the information in the Employer Toolkit: Click Here

 

You will not need to carry out retrospective Right to Work Checks on existing employees after the 30th June 2021 deadline. However, from 1st  July, new EU, EEA and Swiss employees that you hire will need to demonstrate their right to work either with the pre-settled or settled status, or with a visa under the points-based immigration system. 

 

These Right to Work Checks can predominantly be conducted digitally for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens.

 

Those who have successfully applied to the EUSS can access their pre-settled or settled status online, update their personal details, and get a ‘share code’ to provide their status to others on the Gov.UK prove immigration status website: Click Here

 

REMINDER: Transition Update

 

You can now apply for the SME Brexit Support Fund. 

 

Smaller businesses can get up to £2,000 to pay for practical support, including training or professional advice to adjust to new customs, rules of origin and VAT rules when trading with the EU. 

 

For further details Click Here

 

Applications must be received before Wednesday 3‌‌0th ‌ Ju‌‌ne.

 

Consultation on Early Proposals for a Future Delivery Model for FSA-Delivered Official Controls in the Meat Sector Click Here

 

The FSA consultation seeking stakeholders’ views on early proposals for the development of a Future Delivery Model for FSA-delivered Official Controls in the meat sector is now open. 

 

Responses to the consultation are required by Friday 23rd July 2021.

 

To download the consultation pack: Click Here

 

NOTE: AIMS will be making a submission

 

Food System Impacts of COVID-19 Click Here

 

The 11th Exeter University Centre for Rural Research, Food Systems Impacts of Covid-19 Newsletter is now available: Click Here

 

AIMS have been heavily involved in this work which has been extended to November 2021.

 

If there are any issues or thoughts that you would like us to feed back to the project please email: tony.goodger@aims2001.co.uk

 

AIMS Lamb Activity

 

Following our highly successful #ChooseChicken twitter campaign earlier this year we will be running a similar tweets throughout June. There will be a unique tweet each day either promoting the environmental benefits of grazing sheep, the nutritional benefits of lamb or market consumption data.

 

Each tweet will be presented in the form of a digital postcard and will be supported with the strap line #GoAndEnjoy #BritishLamb 

 

There will also be some Welsh Lamb specific tweets during the month.

 

Each day’s tweet will be posted around 12 noon and we may re-post previous days tweets throughout the month.

 

Please keep an eye out for the tweets and ‘like’ ‘retweet’ or ‘reply’ as you see fit.

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

31st May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Surge testing to be deployed across Lancashire Click Here

 

Surge testing is being expanded across parts of Lancashire, following the identification of a number of confirmed cases of the B.1.617.2 variant, first identified in India.

 

Working in partnership with local authorities, NHS Test and Trace is launching additional testing and genomic sequencing across a number of areas, including Burnley, Pendle, Hyndburn and Rossendale.

 

Local authorities will shortly confirm the areas where additional testing will be offered in their boroughs, and reach out directly to residents to ensure people come forward for testing to stop the spread of the virus.

 

Everyone who lives, works or studies in the targeted areas and settings, including children, are being strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

If you have no symptoms, you should visit the local authority website for further information. The links are below however, there was very little on them in respect to surge testing. We will keep members updated.

 

Burnley Borough Council: Click Here

 

Pendle: Click Here

 

Hyndburn: Click Here

 

Rossendale: Click Here

 

The Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here page has also been updated and includes Lancashire County Council. However, their website: Click Here doesn’t include much information in relation to surge testing.

 

We do keep a watch on announcements in relation to surge testing and will ensure that members are updated as the position changes or develops.

 

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

The web page has been updated to align with updated travel guidance in Northern Ireland

 

Travelling to or from Northern Ireland

 

If you’re travelling from within the Common Travel Area and staying overnight in Northern Ireland, you should take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) Click Here before you begin your journey. You should only travel if the test is negative.

 

If you’re travelling from Northern Ireland to other regions of the Common Travel Area and staying overnight, you should take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) before you begin your journey home. 

 

You should only travel if the test is negative. 

 

After you return home you should take an LFD test on day two and day eight.

 

There are a number of exemptions to this request: Click Here

 

The web page has also been updated to provide clarity on the type of test to be used for those with or without symptoms: Click Here

 

Changed the order of paragraphs in the support bubble section: Click Here

 

Clarified the guidance on staying overnight in other people's homes: Click Here

 

PHE: Factors contributing to the transmission of COVID-19 within food manufacturing and processing settings - a rapid review, 5th March 2021 Click Here

 

A paper by PHE on food manufacturing processing was considered at SAGE 83 on 11th March 2021.

 

The paper is the assessment of the evidence at the time of writing. As new evidence or data emerges, SAGE updates its advice accordingly.

 

It is of note that the paper, which was published on Friday 28th May 2021 focuses on meat and poultry processing plants albeit in the US and Germany, as the basis for their findings. Having read the document, which has not been peer reviewed, we have some concerns that PHE may take its principal findings and make assumptions in respect of UK meat and poultry processing.

 

The principal findings are listed as

 

• Difficulties in maintaining a 2-metre distance, especially in production areas, may be a risk factor for transmission in these settings.

 

• Evidence from descriptive studies suggest that transmission occurs within the meat processing plants rather than as a result of external factors (such as shared transportation to work as reported in one of the studies identified).

 

To read the full report, Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

29th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Health and Social Care Secretary's statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 27th  May 2021 Click Here

 

The key points from the speech were as follows:

 

“Yesterday we saw 3,542 new cases, the highest since 12 April. The variant first identified in India – B.1.617.2 – is still spreading, and the latest estimates are that more than half, and potentially as much as three quarters, of all new cases are now of this variant.

 

And we’re using this for surge testing in the 8 hotspot areas, and in other places where cases are lower*, but rising.

 

In the hotspot areas, we’re surging vaccines too, for those who are eligible.”

 

*At present we do not have any firm information on where these ‘other places’ are but we will keep a watch on announcements and update members accordingly.

 

Vaccine Updates around the UK

 

Members in England

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

It's being given to:

 

• People aged 30 and over

 

• People who will turn 30 before 1st July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

​

Members in Scotland

 

In Scotland people aged 30 and over can get their vaccine: Click Here

 

Those aged 18 to 29 will be invited forward next although in some parts of Glasgow people aged 18 and over can get a first jab now.

 

Those aged 18 to 29 (as of 17 May 2021) are currently being invited to register for their coronavirus vaccine: Click Here

 

The registration service is available for 2 weeks, from 24 May until 4 June 2021. Vaccination appointments will start from mid-June

 

Members in Wales

 

The Welsh government is offering vaccines to everyone aged 18 and over: Click Here

 

You will be contacted directly by the NHS. You may be contacted by either telephone or letter. 

 

Members in Northern Ireland

 

In Northern Ireland, people aged 18 and over are eligible: Click Here

 

• You can book online: Click Here

 

• Book at a Pharmacy: Click Here for more information

 

• Or call 0300 200 7813

 

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Updates

 

Download a template if you're claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Click Here

 

If you’re claiming for 16 to 99 employees on or after 27 May 2021, you’ll need to upload a file containing the following information for each employee:

 

• Full name

• National Insurance number (or payroll reference number if you do not have this)

• Payroll reference number (sometimes called a pay identify or staff number)

• Furlough start and end date (using the format DD/MM/YYYY)

• Full amount claimed (pounds and pence)

• Normal hours (using decimals, for example 7.5)

• Actual hours worked (using decimals)

• Furloughed hours (using decimals)

• If they have returned from statutory leave and you then put them on furlough

 

Your template may be rejected if you do not give the information in the right format. If your template is rejected, you’ll see a message on the screen and your claim will not be processed.

 

You’ll need to make sure that you:

 

• Provide only the employee information requested here - you might be asked again or your template may be rejected

• Submit one line per employee for the whole period

• Do not break up the calculation into multiple periods within the claim

• Do not split data by contract type (for example, those paid weekly and monthly should be claimed for together)

• Do not provide more or less columns than needed

• Upload your file as an.xlsx, using the template on this page when you claim

 

Claim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

Section added called 'If you're putting lots of employees on furlough'. 

 

If you’re putting lots of employees on furlough

 

You can download a template if you’re claiming for:

 

• 16 to 99 employees - Click Here

 

• 100 or more employees - Click Here

 

You need to upload the template when you claim.

 

Using these templates will help make sure your claim is processed quickly and successfully. Your template may be rejected if you do not give the information in the right format.

 

Pay Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme grants back Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

New section added called 'How to correct overclaims in your next claim' Click Here

 

You must follow these steps:

 

Work out your claim amount as normal. If you submit using a file, do not provide details of the overclaim in that month’s claim file. The file should show the amount of the claim for the employees being claimed for without any offset for the overclaim.

 

• Work out your overclaim amount.

• Deduct the amount you’ve overclaimed (step 2) from your claim amount (step 1).

• Enter the result in the ‘claim amount’ box on your claim form.

• Enter the amount you’ve overclaimed in the ‘overclaim’ box on your claim form.

 

For example, if your claim amount is £5,000 and you need to repay an overclaim of £1,000, you should enter:

 

£4,000 into the ‘claim amount’ box (£5,000 - £1,000)

 

£1,000 into the ‘overclaim’ box

 

Statement on the Current Position of the Corrugated Cardboard Industry

 

We attended the bi-weekly FDF Roundtable during which The Confederation of Paper Industries gave a sort presentation on their recently published position paper on corrugated cardboard Click here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

27th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Update on the Trade Credit Reinsurance scheme Click Here

 

The government and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) have announced that the temporary Trade Credit Reinsurance (TCR) scheme will close on Wednesday 30th June as planned.

 

A Statement on the closure of the Trade Credit Reinsurance scheme Click Here says:

 

Whilst the government scheme is being wound down, insurers have committed to:

 

• Continue to work closely with policy holders and their clients to understand their insurance needs, whilst proactively seeking out relevant information to inform underwriting decisions.

 

• In underwriting decisions give adequate consideration to a business’s plans for recovery and prospects for future growth, as well as the impacts of COVID-19 on different sectors and ongoing nature of government support.

 

• Continue to transparently communicate the rationale behind underwriting decisions in good time.

 

Similarly, during this period the government will commit to:

 

• Maintain an open dialogue between insurers and businesses, working collaboratively with both to help ensure the smooth transition of cover back to the private sector.

 

• Continue to monitor the levels of insurance cover within the market.

 

Following the conclusion of the scheme, over the summer the government will begin work on the review of the Trade Credit Insurance market to ensure that it is leading to fair outcomes for consumers. We will of course keep members updated with their proposals.

 

Staffing and Staff Shortages

 

Over the last week we have heard from both members and non-member meat and poultry processing businesses about the challenge of getting staff. These may be skilled staff or staff requiring training. 

 

AIMS is continuing to push the Home Office to review both the shortage occupation list to include Standard Occupation Code 5431 (Butcher – This covers a wide range of jobs in meat processing Click Here) and Standard Occupation Code 5433 (Poultry Processors – As with butchers this covers a wide range of jobs in poultry processing Click Here)

 

There are two aspects to the shortage, the immediate requirement for workers and seasonal poultry workers.

 

In terms of the seasonal poultry worker requirement we have, via a member of parliament, asked the Home Office:

 

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of extending the seasonal agricultural workers scheme to ensure sufficient workers are available for the 2021 poultry season in the run up to Christmas 2021.

 

The reply was:

 

There are currently no plans to expand the scope of the Seasonal Workers Pilot beyond the edible horticulture sector.

 

UK employers should in the first instance look to the domestic labour market before looking to facilitate recruitment from overseas

 

And

 

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what progress her Department has made on supporting the use of the EU Settled Status app by Polish workers

 

The reply was:

 

The ‘EU Exit: ID Document Check’ app allows applicants to prove their identity remotely using their biometric identity document and a smartphone device. Millions of applicants have used the app to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme over the last two years, including over 900,000 Polish nationals.

 

In early 2021 we were made aware the new Polish passport, issued from late 2020 onwards, contained an advanced security protocol, Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE), which was not supported by our app. We have now made the necessary changes to our app to support this new security protocol and are now in the final stages of testing with a view to releasing the upgrade by the end of May.

 

The vast majority of Polish passports are not affected by this issue and thou-sands of Polish nationals are still using the app every week to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. Any applicant who is unable to use the app to verify their identity can still apply to the scheme by completing an online application and sending their identity document through the post.

 

We are awaiting a reply to our questions as regards the immediate shortage and whether the Home Office will review the shortage occupation list. However, we have been told verbally by a civil servant at the Home Office that this is unlikely whilst there are still considerable numbers of people without jobs and that UK employers should look to the domestic labour market.

 

With this in mind and having spoken with a member with a particularly acute staff shortage please remember that the Kickstart Scheme has been changed to become more accessible for businesses: Click Here

 

There is also a scheme called Hire a Hero Click Here which is a platform advertising jobs to Ex-Forces staff.

 

We are keen to members who have staff shortages and the effect that this is having on their businesses in order that we can assist you in raising this with your local MP. We in turn are raising the issue with AIMS’ constituency MP and also via the FDF roundtable on a broader issue covering other staff shortages from drivers to food industry staff.

 

Members in Scotland

 

Priorities of Government statement – 26th May 2021 Click Here

 

The First Minister’s statement on the new Government included a few points which may be of interest to members in Scotland. These included:

 

• And in our first hundred days, we will launch the “Scotland Loves Local” campaign, to encourage more support for local businesses. This is just one of the ways in which we will promote economic recovery.

 

• During our first hundred days, we will establish a new Council for Economic Transformation. We will support specific business sectors - including food and drink, and tourism.

 

• And we will boost our rural economy – through, for example, a Rural Entrepreneur Fund.

 

• And, over the course of this parliament, we will help willing companies pilot a four day working week, as we explore whether the changes in working practices brought about by the pandemic can - for the long term - improve wellbeing and productivity.

 

• In less than six months-time, Glasgow is due to host COP 26 – the most important discussions that will take place in the world this year. And so in our first hundred days, we will publish an indicative national defined contribution – setting out how Scotland will become a net-zero nation by 2045.

 

• We will fund colleges to deliver 5,000 short, industry-focused courses for young people.

 

• We will also work with the business sector, to provide as much clarity and support as possible.

 

Find your NHS number Click Here

 

A member contacted us and asked if there was a tool for finding your NHS Number?

 

There is…

 

You will need your full name, date of birth and post code.

 

Meat Business Women

 

Yesterday, Meat Business Women Click Here launched their #SheLooksLikeMe campaign to encourage more women into the meat and poultry industry. We know that there are many many vacancies for staff at present and this will be further exacerbated as we approach Christmas with it’s increased demand for workers in the turkey sector. 

 

The Meat Business Women campaign includes a short film: Click Here which we encourage all members to watch and if possible share via their Social Media. 

 

We were also delighted to sponsor the ‘One to Watch’ prize which was won by April Dear, Site Development Manager at Cranswick.

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

26th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

 

​

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do  Click Here

 

Many of you will have seen reports in the media in relation to an announcement made last Friday (21st May 2021) in relation to Coronavirus Restrictions. We read every piece of advice published every day and were not able to recall ever seeing it. 

 

Last evening the web page was re-issued with the statement: ”The guidance for areas where the new COVID-19 variant is spreading has been updated to make it clearer we are not imposing local restrictions”

 

The key points within the announcement are as follows:

 

If you’re in an area where the new COVID-19 variant is spreading

 

This new variant is sometimes referred to as the variant first identified in India. It is spreading fastest in:

 

• Bedford Borough Council - Click Here

 

• Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council - Click Here

 

• Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council - Click Here

 

• Burnley Borough Council - Click Here

 

• Kirklees Council - Click Here

 

• Leicester City Council - Click Here

 

• London Borough of Hounslow - Click Here

 

• North Tyneside Council - Click Here

 

The new COVID-19 variant spreads more easily from person to person.

 

To help stop the spread, you should take particular caution when meeting anyone outside your household or support bubble.

 

In the areas listed above, wherever possible, you should try to:

 

• Meet outside rather than inside where possible

 

• Keep 2 metres apart from people that you don’t live with (unless you have formed a support bubble with them), this includes friends and family you don’t live with

 

• Minimise travel in and out of affected areas

 

You should also:

 

• Get tested twice a week for free and isolate if you are positive

 

• Continue to work from home if you can

 

• Get vaccinated when you are offered it, and encourage others to do so as well

 

• Refer to local health advice for your area (linked above)

 

You should get tested for COVID-19. This includes:

 

• Arranging to have a PCR test if you have symptoms of COVID-19

 

• Participating in surge testing in your local area

 

Getting regular rapid tests if you do not have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19)

 

You should self-isolate immediately if you have symptoms or a positive test result for COVID-19. There is financial support if you’re off work because of coronavirus: Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: guide for adults Click Here

 

The phase 2 guidance: Click Here is now available in the following languages:

 

• Albanian - Click Here

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Brazilian Portuguese - Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• Chinese - Click Here

• Estonian - Click Here

• Farsi - Click Here

• Greek - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Latvian - Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Romanian - Click Here

• Russian - Click Here

• Somali - Click Here

• Spanish - Click Here

• Turkish - Click Here

• Twi - Click Here

• Ukrainian - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

​

There will be an AIMS Update LIVE event on Thursday 27th May 2021 from 10:30 to 11:30

 

The event is open to all AIMS Members including those from the poultry sector and we are particularly keen that levy paying members join us on the day.

 

The speakers will be:

 

Christine Watts – Chief Communications and Market Development Officer

 

Liam Byrne - Head of Marketing - Pork, Beef and Lamb

 

Jon Foot - Head of Environment & Resource Management

 

The team will cover Exports, domestic marketing, red meat and climate change and will also be available for Q&As

 

To Join the call which will be on Microsoft Teams please click the link below at 10:30 on Thursday 27th May 2021

 

Join on your computer or mobile app

 

Click here to join the meeting

 

Or call in (audio only)

 

+44 20 3321 5218,,178204956#   United Kingdom, London 

 

Don’t forget, the future of the red meat levy will be voted on in early 2022.

 

• If you are not able to join us for the meeting but have a question for ADHB please email it through to 

 

To date, we have received 3 questions.

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

​

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

25th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

There will be an AIMS Update LIVE event on Thursday 27th May 2021 from 10:30 to 11:30

 

The event is open to all AIMS Members including those from the poultry sector and we are particularly keen that levy paying members join us on the day.

 

The speakers will be:

 

Christine Watts - Chief Communications and Market Development Officer

 

Liam Byrne - Head of Marketing - Pork, Beef and Lamb

 

Jon Foot - Head of Environment & Resource Management

 

The team will cover Exports, domestic marketing, red meat and climate change and will also be available for Q&As

 

To Join the call which will be on Microsoft Teams please click the link below at 10:30 on Thursday 27th May 2021

 

Join on your computer or mobile app 

 

Click here to join the meeting

 

Or call in (audio only)

 

+44 20 3321 5218,,178204956#   United Kingdom, London 

 

Don’t forget, the future of the red meat levy will be voted on in early 2022.

 

• If you are not able to join us for the meeting but have a question for ADHB please email it through to tony.goodger@aims2001.co.uk

 

Surge testing to be deployed in North East Hampshire Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace – in partnership with the local authority – is launching new additional testing and genomic sequencing targeted in a number of postcodes across the Hart District, Rushmoor Borough and the Surrey border.

 

Everyone aged 12 and over who lives or works in these postcodes is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test from Wednesday 26 May, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

Further targeted testing is also being deployed at a school in the area, which started on Monday 24thMay. The local authority is endeavouring to reach out to anyone who should be tested.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

If you have no symptoms, you should visit the local authority’s website for more information: Click Here

 

How to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

The guidance Click Here has been updated to include information on reducing the risk when meeting friends and family.

 

If you are meeting friends and family you should still be cautious, even if you feel well. You can pass COVID-19 on to others if you only have mild symptoms or even no symptoms at all.

 

Remember that some people are more vulnerable than others to becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 and any close contact is a greater risk to them. For example, people that are clinically extremely vulnerable or those that have not been vaccinated.

 

Further guidance on meeting friends and family is available: Click Here

​

Members in Wales

 

Holiday in Wales this year new Health Minister asks Click Here

 

• The Welsh Government has announced residents of Wales can apply for a certificate of vaccination for urgent international travel. 

 

• The certificate allows them to demonstrate they have received the full course of a COVID-19 vaccine.

 

• The Welsh Government is working with the UK Government to enable Welsh citizens to use the NHS App to show their vaccination status. 

 

• This will be available shortly

 

The Health Minister, Eluned Morgan is encouraging people to holiday in Wales and explore its beauty this summer as the fight against COVID-19 continues saying:

 

“We’ve all worked really hard to bring coronavirus under control in Wales; we need to do everything we can to prevent coronavirus from being re-imported into Wales from travel. Our strong advice is to only travel overseas if it is essential.” 

 

And Finally…

 

Only two in five hospitality business leaders say they’re trading at profit, though confidence is on the rise

 

“Only two in five hospitality businesses are now either trading or are expected to trade at a profit by the end of June, a new survey from CGA and Fourth has revealed.

 

Data from the duo’s Business Confidence survey shows the “strong return” of the on-trade since trading outside was permitted on 12 April. This includes a sharp rise in business confidence among hospitality leaders, with optimism for the next 12 months reaching a six-year high.

 

However, the data has also revealed that two in five (41%) of businesses are still trading at a loss as social distancing restrictions and staff shortages continue to take their toll.”

 

To read the full article (published on the Harper’s Website): Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

24th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Surge Testing

 

Surge testing to be deployed in parts of West London Click Here

 

Additional coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR testing is to begin in the coming days in targeted settings and postcodes within the following London Boroughs:

 

• Harrow - Covid-19 surge testing in schools to protect our community - Click Here

 

• Ealing – No Additional information at present

 

• Hillingdon - Enhanced testing for COVID-19 variants of concern - Click Here

 

• Brent - No Additional information at present

 

Testing will be deployed in different ways in each borough in order to meet local needs. Local authorities will shortly confirm the areas where additional testing will be offered in their boroughs, and reach out directly to residents to ensure people come forward for testing to stop the spread of the virus.

 

Everyone who lives, works or studies in the targeted areas and settings, including children, are being strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not. 

 

We will ensure that all information in relation to localised surge testing is sent out on future daily AIMS Updates

 

NHS Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

It's being given to:

 

• People aged 32 and over

 

• People who will turn 32 before 1st July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

Vaccines highly effective against B.1.617.2 variant after 2 doses Click Here

 

The Vaccine’s effectiveness against symptomatic disease from the B.1.617.2 (Indian) variant is similar after 2 doses compared to the B.1.1.7 (Kent) variant dominant in the UK, and PHE expect to see even higher levels of effectiveness against hospitalisation and death.

 

COVID-19: guidance for food businesses Click Here

 

Additional text has been added to the guidelines Click Here confirming that the social distancing requirements are still in place after 17th  May

 

Safety throughout the facility including entry points

 

• Consider staggering shift starting times to minimise crowding at entry points.

 

• Ensure social distancing of 2 metres, if possible, while awaiting entry – and if not, ensure maximum feasible social distancing is practised.

 

Maintaining social distancing within the workplace

 

Consider reducing staffing density in the workplace by:

 

• Staggering shift start and end times

 

• Reducing the number of workers per shift if possible

 

• Creating a break between shifts supported by visible marshalling, to minimise overlap and to enable effective cleaning of the working areas

 

• Wherever possible, social distancing of 2 metres between workers must be facilitated, both when working alongside each other and when working face-to-face. If production lines do not permit 2 metres distancing face-to-face working should be avoided.

 

• Where social distancing of 2 metres cannot be implemented consider whether 1 metre distancing with further mitigation measures such as redesigning the task or adding physical barriers can be considered. If not, PPE or face coverings are recommended in some areas to help mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission, where this is compatible with food hygiene. Where 2 metres social distancing is not possible, businesses may also wish to consider putting in place a routine asymptomatic testing programme for staff and stricter staff cohorting.

​

Working safely in food processing and production settings (easy-to-translate version) Click Here - This page is designed to be easily translated, using free-to-use online translation services, into the preferred languages of employees if English is not their first language.

 

Government launches new pilots to further support people to self-isolate  Click Here

 

The government is to launch 9 trailblazing pilots in England to test new, creative ways to help ensure people stick to self-isolation rules in areas with higher prevalence of infection including from new variants.

 

The areas that will receive funding for these pilots are: 

• Newham

• Yorkshire and Humber

• Lancashire

• Blackburn & Darwen

• Blackpool

• Greater Manchester

• Cheshire and Merseyside

• Royal Borough of Kingston

• Hackney

• Peterborough

• Fenland and South Holland

• Somerset.

 

In partnership with local authorities, the government is backing the pilots with £12 million which will be used for a range of initiatives including providing alternative accommodation for people in overcrowded households, social care support such as increasing existing social care support for vulnerable adults and providing ‘buddying’ services for people whose mental health has been affected by lockdown and the variant outbreaks, and language communications support for individuals where English isn’t their first language. These pilots are designed to encourage people most at risk of catching and transmitting COVID-19 to come forward for testing and to self-isolate successfully if they test positive.

 

Foreign travel advice: Germany Click Here

 

From Sunday 23rd May the UK is designated as a virus variant area of concern, which means that you may only enter Germany from the UK if you are a German citizen, a resident or their spouse/partner/child under 18, or if you can invoke an urgent humanitarian reason such as an immediate family bereavement. 

 

No other travellers may enter Germany from the UK. 

 

For more information: Click Here

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

Added link to easy-read version of the COVID-19 post-vaccination confirmation letter: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Levels and travel restrictions update Click Here

 

Moray moves to Level 2, Glasgow remains in Level 3.

 

NOTE: In the specific areas of Glasgow affected by the current outbreak, all 18 to 39 year olds are now being invited with older age groups first: Click Here

 

Moray will be the only local authority area to change protection level as it moves to Level 2 at midnight Friday, 21st May 2021, following improvement in coronavirus (COVID-19) prevalence.

 

To check the rules for Level 2 - Click Here

 

To check the rules for Level 3 - Click Here

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on travel and transport Click Here

 

Travel to some parts of England will be restricted from Monday 24th May.

 

Travel to and from Bedford, Blackburn with Darwen, and Bolton is only allowed for permitted reasons from Monday 24th May 2021, for example for work or education. 

 

To check the detailed list of examples of reasonable excuses in the regulations: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

21st May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Government sets out new action to tackle B1.617.2 variant (The variant first identified in India) Click Here

 

The government has outlined new decisive actions to halt the spread of the B1.617.2 variant of concern first identified in India.

 

Following extensive COVID-19 surveillance, which has rapidly detected cases of the B1.617.2 variant first identified in India, additional surge testing, tracing and isolation support measures are being deployed at pace across Bedford, Burnley, Hounslow, Kirklees, Leicester and North Tyneside.

 

The government continues to work in close partnership with local authorities to ensure the right action is taken at the right time, and to boost uptake of the approved vaccines for those eligible in these areas.

 

Testing will be ramped up to meet local needs, which will include additional mobile testing units, door-to-door testing and extra polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test kits for community testing sites.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

We have looked at the websites of the local authorities mentioned above to see what further information is available.

 

• Bedford Borough Council - Click Here

 

Working in partnership with NHS Test and Trace, everyone- adults and children- living in the Kingsbrook, Cauldwell and Queens Park areas of Bedford Borough and the village of Wixams, is strongly encouraged to take a PCR COVID-19 test this week, even if they are not showing symptoms. This will help to identify cases and ensure that people self-isolate, with the appropriate support.

 

• Burnley Click Here - There is very little additional information at present. We will keep members updated once more information becomes available. 

 

• LB Hounslow -  Click Here

 

"We are waiting for detailed final plans to be agreed by all parties and will move to make those operational as soon as possible in the coming days." 

 

• Kirklees Council - Click Here

 

“Kirklees Council is bringing a mobile collection point to a number of areas across the borough to make it easier for local people to access Covid-19 Lateral Flow home testing kits.

 

You may already be aware that there are a few different ways you can access your twice-weekly asymptomatic tests. However, we know it can be difficult for some people to access these options for a number of reasons.

 

That’s why, as part of a pilot, we’re setting up a one-day mobile collection point in each the following areas: Dewsbury, Ravensthorpe, Heckmondwike, Honley, Huddersfield, and Saville Town between the dates of 21 May – 28 May 2021.”

 

• Leicester City Council - Click Here - There is very little additional information at present. We will keep members updated once more information becomes available. 

 

• North Tyneside - Click Here

 

From Saturday 22 May, the council will deploy two mobile testing units (MTUs) in North Shields and Wallsend.

 

From Saturday morning they will be open without an appointment between 10am and 4pm at Wallsend Forum, behind the Anson pub, and in North Shields town centre.

 

Residents and those who work or learn in North Tyneside are encouraged to make use of these PCR test sites, if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19.

 

The Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here page has been updated to include Bedford Borough Council (Kingsbrook, Cauldwell and Queens Park areas and the village of Wixams) in the locations using surge testing

 

NOTE: Within yesterday’s Government news we found Confirmed cases of COVID-19 variants identified in UK Click Here in which it reported that there is a further “New Variant Under Investigation”.

 

“A further variant, VUI-21MAY-01, has been designated as a Variant Under Investigation (VUI) by PHE.

 

The variant is from a lineage which was designated a signal in monitoring on 6 May 2021 based on an unusual mutation profile. PHE has been monitoring the variant since April.

 

There have been 49 cases of VUI-21MAY-01 across the country to date, mainly concentrated in Yorkshire and the Humber.

 

There is currently no evidence that this variant causes more severe disease or renders the vaccines currently deployed any less effective. PHE is carrying out increased laboratory testing to better understand the impact of the mutations on the behaviour of the virus.”

 

We will of course keep members updated.

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

It's being given to:

 

• People aged 34 and over

 

• People who will turn 34 before 1 July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

Reminder: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

 

Claims for furlough days in May 2021 must be made by Monday 14th June 2021

 

Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

The YouTube video about the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) – fourth grant has been updated: Click Here

 

Diary Date

 

AIMS Update – LIVE – AHDB Thursday 27th May 2021 from 10:30 to 11:30

 

The event is open to all AIMS Members and we are particularly keen that levy paying members join us on the day.

 

The speakers are:

 

• Christine Watts – Chief Communications and Market Development Officer

 

• Liam Byrne - Head of Marketing - Pork, Beef and Lamb

 

• Jon Foot - Head of Environment & Resource Management

 

The team will cover Exports, domestic marketing, red meat and climate change and will also be available for Q&As

 

To Join the call which will be on Microsoft Teams please click the link below at 10:30 on Thursday 27th May 2021

 

Join on your computer or mobile app 

​

Click here to join the meeting

​

Or call in (audio only)

 

+44 20 3321 5218,,178204956#   United Kingdom, London 

 

Phone Conference ID: 178 204 956# 

 

And Finally…

 

Drinks trade magazine Harpers is reporting ‘First-day back’ sales see 25% uplift for bars and restaurants on 17th May Click Here

 

“After five weeks of outdoor-only trading, CGA research has revealed a strong start to the week for managed groups as consumers make the most of being able to drink and eat indoors for the first time since December.

 

In the first figures to be released following the return of indoor service, data from CGA shows that sales for the GB on-trade were officially up by a quarter (24.9%) on Monday 17 May compared to the equivalent Monday in 2019, despite ongoing social distancing restrictions.”

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

20th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Health and Social Care Secretary's statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 19th May 2021 Click Here

 

“Mobility data shows travel patterns in different areas, and we look at this in deciding where the virus is at risk of spreading.

 

Next, we now analyse wastewater in 70% of the country, and we can spot the virus, and the variants in the water, and that can help us identify communities where there is spread.

 

As a result of all this analysis, we are now surge testing* and increasing vaccinations in:

 

•  Bedford

•  Burnley

•  Leicester

•  Kirklees

•  North Tyneside

•  Hounslow in London

 

And we’re supporting the Scottish Government, who are taking similar action in Glasgow and Moray.

 

What this means in practice is putting in place more testing – more testing sites – and on vaccinations, we are making more vaccinations available to everyone who’s eligible.”

 

The Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here page has been updated to now include Nuneaton.

 

*At the time of writing this update there was little or no information on the council’s mentioned websites. Once this information comes available we will update members

 

Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

The following recorded webinars have been updated:

 

• Self-Employment Income Support Scheme - fourth grant: Click Here

 

• Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rebate Scheme: Click Here

 

• A YouTube video for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme - fourth grant has been added: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

COVID-19 vaccination status scheme launches Click Here

 

Measure will provide confirmation of vaccination when required for foreign travel.

 

A service that allows people travelling abroad to access their record of vaccination status themselves has launched.

 

A vaccination status letter can be downloaded from the NHS Inform patient portal Click Here or -  for those not online - requested in the post via a Freephone Covid Status Helpline: 0808 196 8565

 

If you are intending to travel abroad you should:

 

• Check the entry requirements for your destination country on the UK foreign travel advice pages: Click Here

 

• Get up-to-date information from the website of your destination country

 

• Check the re-entry requirements for your return to Scotland: Click Here

 

• Only request a vaccination record if it is absolutely required and you are due to travel in the next 21 days

 

Two Guidance documents have been updated with links to the new Indian variant

 

1. COVID-19: ventilation of indoor spaces to stop the spread of coronavirus Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated with a link to the new variant: Click Here

 

2. COVID-19: guidance for the public on mental health and wellbeing Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated with a link to the new variant: Click Here

 

COVID-19: guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection Click Here

 

The guidance: Click Here is now available in the following languages:

 

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Simplified Chinese - Click Here

• Traditional Chinese - Click Here

• French - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Portuguese - Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

19th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Nuneaton Click Here

 

Working in partnership with the local authority, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in the Wembrook and Abbey wards. 

 

Everyone who lives or works in these targeted areas within Nuneaton should take a COVID-19 PCR test.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

If you have no symptoms, you should visit the Warwickshire Council website for more information: Click Here

 

Public reminded to let in fresh air when meeting others indoors to reduce the spread of COVID-19 Click Here

 

Everyone across England is being encouraged to remember, ‘when you let friends in, let fresh air in too’ in a new government advertising campaign.

 

To view the advert: Click Here

 

There is also a poster to download: Click Here

 

Tell HMRC and pay back a Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

New information added explaining when and how to tell HMRC about a tax return amendment if it affects your eligibility or grant amount: Click Here

 

Links to more information on penalties and how HMRC can recover overpaid grants have also been added: Click Here

 

Penalties for not telling HMRC about coronavirus (COVID-19) support scheme overpayments - CC/FS11a Click Here

 

Penalties information in CC/FS11a has been updated for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme and the document can be downloaded from the link above.

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

The page now has updated information on how to access your COVID-19 vaccination status on the NHS website and NHS app: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Protecting Scotland against COVID Click Here

 

Anyone who was part of vaccine priority groups 1-9 and missed their original appointment is being asked to come forward to arrange their vaccination.

 

Invitations have been issued to everyone aged 40 or over, with 30-39-year olds starting to be invited now. In the specific areas of Glasgow affected by the current outbreak, all 18-39 year olds are being invited with older age groups first.

 

Anyone who believes they should have had a letter by now with details of either their first or second dose should call the national helpline - 0800 030 8013 (open daily, 8am-8pm) or fill out the missing appointments form on the NHS Inform site: Click Here

 

And Finally…X2!

 

1.  AIMS Supplier Member Roythornes Solicitors (www.roythorne.co.uk) have published their latest 1 -2 -3 column with Garry Bainbridge.

 

Garry is owner of the online fresh fish company ish fish Click Here

 

Having been a professional yachtsman for the last 20 years and sailing around the world (he is still doing this) he started ish fish three years ago with his business partner Joel as they saw a gap in the market for an online fish start-up.

 

It was a short but interesting read and much of what Garry said would resonate with many AIMS members.

 

2. Top 10 New and Rising Trends 2021 – 2022 

 

In the ever changing landscape of food and drink, it can be a dizzying experience to keep an eye upon all the latest developments, which is The Food People have helped you to zone in one the most exciting with their Top 10 New and Rising Trends of 2021 – 2022. To Check them out: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

18th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Millions more to be offered Covid jab as Indian variant cases rise

 

The Health Secretary updated the house with the latest information on Coronavirus: Click Here

 

“This is not just about Bolton and Blackburn. There are now 86 local authority areas where there are five or more confirmed cases. 

 

The next biggest case of concern is Bedford, where we are surging testing. I urge everybody in Bedford to exercise caution and engage in testing where it is available.

[NOTE: There currently is no further information on the Bedford Council webpage in relation to surge testing]

 

* I can confirm that from tomorrow we will be inviting people aged 37 [Please see below that this is now 36 years old] to come forward, before expanding this further later in the week.”

 

* Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

It's being given to:

 

• People aged 36 and over

 

• People who will turn 36 before 1 July 2021

 

• To Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace in the workplace Click Here

 

Updated to add a call-out about the new COVID-19 variant of concern: 

 

A new COVID-19 variant is spreading in some parts of England. There may be additional advice for your area. Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace: what to do if you are contacted Click Here

 

The web page has been updated to reflect the COVID-19 response - spring 2021 roadmap changes from 17th May.

 

How the rules changed on 17th May

 

Guidance on meeting family and friends has been updated, with a greater emphasis on personal responsibility. 

 

From 17 May, close contact with friends and family will be a personal choice, but you are encouraged to exercise caution. 

 

You should consider the guidance on risks associated with COVID-19 and actions you can take to help keep you and your loved ones safe

 

To check what you can and cannot do: Click Here

​

Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

All of the guidance documents have been updated to reflect the move to Step 3 of the roadmap. Please now refer to the updated versions when required. These are:

 

• Factories, Plants and Warehouses - Click Here

 

• Offices and Contact Centres - Click Here

 

• Restaurants, Pubs, Bars and Takeaway Services - Click Here

 

• Shops and Branches - Click Here

 

• Vehicles - Click Here

 

Step 3 COVID-19 restrictions posters: 17th May 2021 Click Here

 

With restrictions in England eased yesterday the poster showing what is now permitted has been updated. To download: Click Here

 

The poster is supported with updated guidance - Restrictions on businesses and venues in England Click Here

 

Some of the rules on what you can and cannot do changed on 17 May. However, coronavirus restrictions remain in place. You should continue to work from home if you can, travel safely, and follow the rules in the Coronavirus Restrictions guidance: Click Here

 

Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to include the recently added Hackney Council Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council in the locations using surge testing: Click Here

 

And to remove London Boroughs of Hounslow and Tower Hamlets Council where the surge testing has now been completed.

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

The webpage has been updated to reflect the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccination status service and includes information on obtaining information:

 

• In foreign languages Click Here

1. The letter you receive will be in English. You can access translations of the letter, not including your personal information, in different languages. 

2. These are to help people who read those languages.

3. You will still need to take the English letter with you because this contains the information about your vaccination status. 

4. You do not need your letter in a language to match the country you are intending to travel to.

 

• In alternative formats Click Here

​

COVID-19 Charter for holidaymakers launched Click Here

 

Passenger COVID-19 Charter published as people allowed to begin travelling again internationally for leisure - Click Here

 

The charter will guide passengers on what to do if their travel plans change, including:

 

• What they are entitled to through their passenger rights

 

• Expectations of the providers they are booking trips with

 

• Their own responsibilities to ensure a smooth journey

 

To read the summary version of the charter: Click Here

 

There is also a Passenger Covid-19 Checklist available: Click Here

 

Reminder…

 

Last week we were speaking with a member during which the issue of the BRC Directory came up. During the call we checked their details and found that the information on their page was incorrect. If you are assured to BRC or SALSA take a couple of minutes today to check that your businesses details are up to date.

 

For BRC Directory: Click Here

 

For SALSA Accreditation: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

17th May EXTRA -Every Vaccination gives us Hope

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

 

As part of the new national government campaign on the Covid-19 vaccine, ‘Every Vaccination gives us hope’ the Government have developed an employer toolkit to help ensure employers and their staff get access to reliable and accurate information about the Covid-19 vaccine.

​

The Cabinet Office have asked us to forward the information to members and to ask that you use these resources, consisting of key messages, vaccine fact sheets, informative Q&A, videos, posters and many more, to run an internal awareness campaign and to ensure staff have access to NHS-verified advice on the vaccine.

​

It would be great if you can support this campaign.

​

The Government have also asked you to pledge your support to be as flexible as possible in supporting your staff to get the vaccine and play your part in the UK’s biggest vaccination programme in NHS history.

​

The employer toolkit can be download here

 

Please see attached: 

• The employer toolkit click here

• A Q&A click here

​

17th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

PM statement at coronavirus press conference: 14th May 2021 Click Here

 

“…since I spoke to you last Monday, we’ve seen further clusters of the B.1.617.2, the variant first observed in India, we’ve seen it especially in Bolton, Blackburn with Darwen and some other parts of the country.

 

At this stage there are some important unknowns.

 

We believe this variant is more transmissible than the previous one – in other words it passes more easily from person to person - but we don’t know by how much”

 

“… we will accelerate remaining second doses to the over 50s and those clinically vulnerable right across the country so they are just eight weeks after the first dose, and if you are in this group the NHS will be in touch with you.

 

We will also prioritise first doses for anyone eligible who has not yet come forwards, including the over 40s - and I urge anyone in those groups to come forwards as soon as you can.”

 

Most vulnerable offered second dose of COVID-19 vaccine earlier to help protect against variants Click Here

 

The country’s most vulnerable are to be offered their second COVID-19 vaccine earlier, the government has announced, as part of plans to tackle rising cases of the B1.617.2 variant of concern first identified in India.

 

Appointments for a second dose of a vaccine will be brought forward from 12 to 8 weeks for the remaining people in the top 9 priority groups who have yet to receive their second dose. 

 

This is to ensure people across the UK have the strongest possible protection from the virus at an earlier opportunity.

 

SURGE TESTING

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Blackburn with Darwen Click Here

 

Everyone who lives, works or studies in targeted areas within Shear Brow and Corporation Park, Billinge and Beardwood, and Bastwell and Daisyfield, Blackburn with Darwen should take a COVID-19 PCR test.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Everyone who lives, works or studies in the targeted areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not, from Tuesday 18th May.

 

For further details please visit the Blackburn with Darwen website: Click Here

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Hackney Click Here

 

Everyone over the age of 16 who lives or works in targeted areas within Shoreditch and Dalston should take a COVID-19 PCR test.

 

Everyone who lives or works in the targeted areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details please visit the Hackney Borough Council website: Click Here

 

To see further information on Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here

 

NOTE: Surge testing in Birmingham has now been completed.

 

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

Additional guidance on new the variant has been added: Click Here

 

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Farsi - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Punjabi Gurmukhi - Click Here

• Punjabi Shamukhi - Click Here

• Slovak - Click Here

• Somali - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

• Welsh - Click Here

 

Package holiday refunds and cancellations Click Here

 

The Government has set out a number of things to consider when buying package holidays. 

 

It is not a comprehensive statement about all cancellation issues. 

 

It reflects important concerns or questions raised with the CMA by consumers about package holiday cancellations during the pandemic.

 

This information is not a substitute for legal advice and if you have any queries about package holiday cancellations you should take independent advice.

 

To read the advice: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Glasgow and Moray to remain in Level 3 Click Here

 

Glasgow and Moray will remain in Level 3 from Monday 17th May and travel to and from these areas will be prohibited other than for permitted purposes, due to a high rate of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases.

 

Universal testing is now available Scotland-wide. 

 

Everyone in Moray and Glasgow is encouraged to get tested to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by finding cases that might be missed, as around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 don’t have symptoms. 

 

Testing is free and results are available in around 30 minutes

 

Moray Testing Locations: Click Here

 

Glasgow Testing Locations: Click Here

 

For details on self-isolation support: Click Here

 

Level 2 Click Here restrictions will apply from Monday 17th May across all of mainland Scotland, with the exception of Moray and Glasgow City local authority areas.

 

Members in Wales 

 

Wales moves to alert level 2 Click Here

 

Indoor hospitality businesses will be able to re-open from Monday 17th May; indoor entertainment venues will also re-open and there will be an increase in the number of people able to attend organised indoor and outdoor activities.

 

The First Minister has also confirmed that international travel will resume from Monday 17th May but extra safeguards will be put in place for people returning from some countries to prevent coronavirus re-entering Wales.

 

The Welsh Government announced additional financial support for businesses still affected by coronavirus restrictions – they will be able to claim up to £25,000 more in support to help meet ongoing costs: Click Here

 

An eligibility checker will open on the Business Wales website at midday on Monday 17th May so businesses can find out how much support they are likely to be entitled to and how to apply.

 

Please check at Midday to see if you can make a claim as the funds will be allocated on a first come first served basis. The fund does include cash for supply chain businesses that have been affected. 

​

Football stars hail COVID-19 vaccine as the 'best defence' of 2021 Click Here

 

Football legends Harry Redknapp, Chris Kamara, Eniola Aluko, Chris Hughton, Carlton Cole and Jules Breach appear in the short film, choosing their best defenders of the season so far – with the COVID-19 vaccination programme coming out on top - and encouraging the public to take-up the jab when offered.

 

“I’d encourage everyone to take up the offer of the vaccine when they are called. Maguire’s defence might be pretty good, but the jab is better.” – Harry Redknapp 

 

To watch the film (1 minute): Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

14th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

 

Surge Testing Updates

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Formby, Sefton Click Here

 

Everyone over the age of 16 who lives, works or studies in Formby, Sefton should take a COVID-19 PCR test.

 

Working in partnership with the local authority, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing targeted in Formby, Sefton. It follows the identification of confirmed cases of the variant first identified in India (B.1.617).

 

Everyone who lives, works or studies in the targeted areas is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not from Friday 14 May.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

For further details visit the My Sefton Website: Click Here

 

New measures to boost response to the B1.617.2 variant (Indian Variant) Click Here

 

Action is being taken to control the variant first identified in India which is beginning to spread in certain areas across the country.

 

• The government is closely monitoring the variant first identified in India (B1.617.2) and taking action along with NHS Test and Trace and local authorities

 

• A new Surge Rapid Response Team is being deployed in Bolton, additional surge testing will shortly launch in areas such as Formby, and enhanced contact tracing is in place across England

 

• Ministers are also considering a range of options which could include bringing forward second doses for eligible groups

 

Most cases are in the North West of England, with some in London and the West Midlands.

 

Blackburn with Darwen Click Here

 

Blackburn with Darwen residents are being urged to remain cautious, after a rise in cases of Covid-19.

 

The rise is linked, in part, to a new Indian variant that spreads more easily.

 

Additional clinics offering the covid-19 vaccination to eligible people in Blackburn with Darwen will open up from next week, it has been announced

 

Contrary to earlier social media and news reporting, vaccines at the clinics will not be widely available to over 18s.

 

They will be available within current Government guidance, which is currently anyone over the age of 38, anyone over 18 with an underlying health condition or who lives with someone who has lowered immunity, health and social care staff and carers.

 

For the latest information on Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants in England Click Here

 

At present there is no surge testing being undertaken in Northern Ireland, Wales or Scotland. 

 

However, in Scotland Moray is likely to remain at Level 3 Click Here for a further period due to the number of COVID-19 cases - this will be confirmed by the end of this week. Financial support will be available to businesses in the area if Moray does remain at Level 3.

​

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

Who can get the Covid vaccine?

 

In England, the COVID-19 vaccine is being offered in some hospitals and pharmacies, at local centres run by GPs and at larger vaccination centres. More centres are opening all the time.

 

It is now being given to:

 

• People aged 38 and over

 

• People who will turn 38 before 1st July 2021

​

REMINDER

 

Get coronavirus tests for your employees Click Here

 

If you’ve already registered, you can order free rapid lateral flow tests until 30th June 2021.

 

AIMS Advises that you get in orders for kits ASAP to take you past the 30th June as we understand that there is likely to be heavy demand as the deadline date approaches.

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to reflect that if you call 119 to request a letter about your vaccination status, It is expected that the letter will take up to 7 working days to reach you.

 

If you do not have access to a smartphone and know that the country you are travelling to requires COVID-19 vaccination status, you can call the NHS helpline on 119 (from 17 May) and ask for a letter to be posted to you. This must be at least 5 working days after you’ve completed your course of the vaccine. We expect the letter to take up to 7 working days to reach you.

 

The letter will be sent automatically to the address registered with your GP. The 119 call handler you speak to will not be able to see your address to check this with you. If you’ve recently moved house, make sure you’ve given your new address to your GP practice before calling 119.

​

Organisation testing registration: record of users Click Here

 

There’s a new version of the record-keeping multiple registration spreadsheet to use from Wednesday 19th May 2021. The updated spreadsheet will let you register both polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test kits and rapid lateral flow tests at the same time.

 

• After the organisation-based registration portal is updated, you will not be able to use a previous version of the spreadsheet to register tests.

 

• You should download and fill in this spreadsheet now so that you’re prepared for this change: Click Here

 

• Do not try to register this spreadsheet before Wednesday 19th May.

 

• You can register up to 100 tests on the spreadsheet. You’ll need to complete separate spreadsheets for staff and non-staff.

 

• The guidance information Click Here on completing and uploading the record-keeping spreadsheet.

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

13th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

PM House of Commons Statement on COVID: 12th May 2021

 

The main substance of the speech was in relation to a public enquiry scheduled for Spring 2022 and the established of a Commission on Coronavirus Commemoration.

 

The main extract of note was as follows: 

 

“And the end of the lockdown is not the end of the pandemic.

 

The World Health Organisation has said that the pandemic has now reached its global peak and will last throughout this year.

 

Our own scientific advisers judge that although more positive data is coming in and the outlook is improving, there could still be another resurgence in hospitalisations and deaths.

We also face the persistent threat of new variants, and should these prove highly transmissible and elude the protection of our vaccines, they would have the potential to cause even greater suffering than we endured in January. And there is in any case a high likelihood of a surge this Winter when the weather assists the transmission of all respiratory diseases nd the pressure on our NHS is most acute.”

 

To read the full speech: Click Here

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Redditch Click Here

 

Working in partnership with the local authority, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing targeted in certain areas in Redditch, Worcestershire.

 

Everyone who lives or works in targeted areas in Redditch should take a COVID-19 PCR test when invited.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

You can find out if your postcode is included on the Worcestershire council website: Click Here

 

Test and Trace Support Payment scheme: claiming financial support Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to make eligibility criteria clearer: - 

 

The £500 Test and Trace Support Payment is for people on low incomes who have to self-isolate due to coronavirus (COVID-19). You may be eligible if you are employed or self-employed, cannot work from home, and will lose income as a result. You can only apply if you’ve been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, notified to self-isolate by the NHS COVID-19 app, or you’re the parent or guardian of a child who has been told to self-isolate.

 

If you’ve been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, you’re legally required to do so. If you’ve been notified by the NHS COVID-19 app to self-isolate and you apply for the Test and Trace Support Payment, you will be legally required to self-isolate.

 

To read the full guidance: Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace: what to do if you are contacted Click Here

 

• Added that you can leave self-isolation to get a COVID-19 test at a test site or to take a home test to a priority post box. 

 

“…you can leave self-isolation to get a test Click Here to find out if you have COVID-19, or to take a home test to a priority post box Click Here

 

• Also added information about local support available to people who are self-isolating.

 

“Your local authority can help you access the local support available to you while self-isolating. 

 

If you cannot rely on support from family, friends and neighbours, your local authority may be able to help you access food or assist with caring responsibilities, as well as mental health, loneliness and digital support. 

 

You can find more information, including the helpline number, on your local authority website. To find your local authority: Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: women of childbearing age, currently pregnant or breastfeeding Click Here

 

The guidance Click Here is now available in the following languages:

 

• Albanian - Click Here

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• Chinese - Click Here

• Farsi - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Latvian - Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Portuguese Brazilian - Click Here

• Romanian - Click Here

• Russian - Click Here

• Somali - Click Here

• Spanish - Click Here

• Turkish - Click Here

• Twi - Click Here

• Ukrainian - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

​

Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic Click Here

 

The guidance: Click Here has been updated – “From 17th May all apprentices in higher education can return to in-person teaching and learning.”

 

Members in Wales

 

Further support for Welsh businesses Click Here

 

This next package of business support comes as the Welsh Government confirmed up to six people from six different households will be able to meet in indoor regulated settings, such as cafes and pubs, when they open from 17th May.

 

This latest support package will help those businesses, which remain affected by restrictions, to meet ongoing costs through to the end of June as they prepare for re-opening and more normal trading conditions.

Businesses that stand to benefit include:

 

• Nightclubs and late entertainment venues

 

• Events and conference venues not covered by the Welsh Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund (CRF)

 

• Hospitality and leisure businesses, including restaurants, pubs and cafes

 

• Supply chain business, which have been materially impacted by restrictions

 

An eligibility checker will open on the Business Wales website Click Here at midday on Monday 17th May so businesses can find out how much support they are likely to be entitled to and how to apply.

 

Businesses will be able submit applications by the end of the month and they will receive between £2,500 and £25,000 depending on their circumstances. Funding will be calculated based on the size of the business and the type of restrictions they are under.

 

UK to lead the way on animal welfare through flagship new Action Plan Click Here

 

Following on from Tuesday’s Queen’s Speech the Government, along with Defra, have launched #ActionForAnimals.

 

The Action Plan for Animal Welfare, launched by the Environment Secretary George Eustice, ‘will build on our existing world leading standards by recognising animals as sentient in law and committing to a range of new game changing welfare measures to protect pets, livestock and wild animals.’

 

A new Animal Sentience Bill that will be introduced to Parliament Thursday 13th May 2021, putting animal welfare at the very heart of government policy decision making.

 

“Our Action Plan for Animal Welfare will deliver on our manifesto commitment to ban the export of live animal exports for slaughter and fattening, prohibit keeping primates as pets and bring in new laws to tackle puppy smuggling.” Rt. Hon. George Eustice

 

The Action Plan for Animal Welfare also sets out how the government will:

 

Improve welfare for farmed animals by:

 

• Ending the export of live animals for fattening and slaughter

• Introducing new measures to improve welfare during transport

• Giving the police more powers to protect farm animals from dangerous or out of control dogs

• Examining the use of cages for poultry and farrowing crates for pigs

• Improving animal welfare at slaughter

• Incentivising farmers to improve animal health and welfare through future farming policy

 

To read the full Action Plan for Animal Welfare Click Here

 

Within the document we found We will consult on how labelling can be reformed to make it easier for consumers to purchase food that aligns with their welfare values.

 

Section 6 – Farm Animals - Click Here

 

As a first step we will financially support Annual Health and Welfare Reviews, which will lead to improved farm animal health and welfare, including better biosecurity and diagnostic testing. 

 

We will also support livestock farmers financially to pay for health and welfare enhancements that are valued by the public and not currently delivered sufficiently by the market or through existing regulatory standards.

 

To reinforce this, we will consult on how food labelling can be reformed making it easier for consumers to purchase food that aligns with their values. 

 

For example, by clarifying confusing and misleading terms. 

 

We are also exploring complementary market interventions that could sit alongside labelling reforms to stimulate market demand for higher welfare products. 

 

For example, we are looking at animal welfare in our update to the Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

12th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

New 'We Offer Testing to our Staff' scheme launched Click Here

 

New sticker scheme launched allowing UK businesses to display their offer of free testing for staff alongside materials promoting use of the NHS COVID-19 app to check in customers and visitors

 

A new scheme for businesses offering workplace testing for staff through NHS Test and Trace has been launched across the UK. It will show customers, employees and the wider public the businesses that are going the extra mile to keep their staff and the public safe

 

We Offer Testing to our Staff (WOTTOS): endorsement scheme Click Here

 

Guidance Click Here about the ‘We Offer Testing to our Staff’ (WOTTOS) endorsement scheme, which showcases those organisations that offer regular testing for their employees through displaying an easily recognisable and NHS Test and Trace branded physical and/or virtual sticker.

 

Businesses that are eligible are those that:

 

• Are using the free government supplied COVID-19 test kits, either for workplace asymptomatic test sites (ATSs) testing or Workforce Collect

 

• Have registered before April 12th and subsequently self-declare their involvement

 

For businesses registered and signed up for workplace testing before 12th April, promotional materials are available on the ordering platform where organisations order their NHS Test and Trace workplace tests: Click Here

 

We recommend that members consider using this scheme as a physical sticker for site, shops and other food outlets and a virtual sticker on websites, invoices etc.

 

Maintaining records of staff, customers and visitors to support NHS Test and Trace Click Here

 

The guidance page has been updated in line with step 3 of the roadmap to explain how certain venues should be collecting customer, visitor and staff contact details and displaying an NHS QR code poster

 

NOTE: We strongly recommend that members whose drivers are making deliveries to businesses displaying the QR Code scan the code using the NHS Covid-19 App Click Here on entering the business. This will ensure that should they have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for Coronavirus they and in turn your business will be made aware and you can take the appropriate action.

 

NHS Test and Trace in the workplace Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to reflect the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

 

From Monday 17th May 2021 more businesses are permitted to reopen.

 

The rules on what you need to do when a group enters your venue have changed. You must ask every customer or visitor to scan the NHS QR code using their NHS COVID-19 app, or provide their name and contact details, not just a lead member of the group.

 

Using the NHS COVID-19 app as a worker

 

Once you have downloaded the app, it should be left on as much as possible to ensure you and your community are protected. If contact tracing is turned off then the app will not work as intended and you will not be notified if one of your close contacts later tests positive for COVID-19.

 

However, there are some specific workplace scenarios when you should pause the contact tracing feature. These include:

 

• When you are working behind a fixed Perspex (or equivalent) screen and are fully protected from other people

 

• If you store your phone in a locker or communal area, for example while working

 

Contact tracing can be paused within the app by moving the contact tracing toggle on the home screen. It’s important you turn the contact tracing toggle back on as soon as you are not in one of the above scenarios, for example, when you retrieve your phone from your locker. 

 

To help you, you will be given the option to pause the feature for different time periods – after which you will receive a reminder to turn the contact tracing feature back on.

 

COVID-19 vaccination: guide for adults Click Here

 

With phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme now underway the leaflet: Click Here has been updated.

 

In the second phase of the programme the vaccine will be offered to those under 50 years old in the following order:

 

• 40 to 49 years

 

• 30 to 39 years

 

• 18 years and over

 

At present the information is only available in English. Translated versions are due out shortly and will be covered in a forthcoming AIMS Update.

 

How to quarantine when you arrive in England Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to include the ability of amber and green arrivals to travel to a test site for their day 2 and day 8 tests.

 

Tests may be taken in your own accommodation, or at a test site if you have only been in amber or green list countries in the 10 days before your arrival to England. If you are travelling to a test site, you should follow safer travel guidance and avoid public transport if possible.

 

If you get a positive result from your day 2 test, you must quarantine for 10 days beginning the day after the test was taken.

 

If you get a positive result from your day 2 test, you do not need to take a test on day 8.

 

Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Next steps out of lockdown Click Here

 

The new rules, which come into effect on Monday 17th May, will apply to all mainland local authority areas with the exception of Moray, which is experiencing a high and increasing number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases. 

 

As a result Moray is likely to remain in Level 3 for a further period, with travel in and out of the area prohibited other than for permitted purposes. A final decision on this will be made at the end of this week.

 

As the virus is now sufficiently under control in the Western Isles, Orkney, Shetland and remote Highland and Argyll islands, these communities are expected to move straight to Level 1

 

From 17th May, anyone entering Scotland from countries on a new international travel ‘Green List’ will not be required to quarantine on arrival, but will have to take a PCR test for COVID-19. 

The Green List will initially be the same as that in place for England but will be subject to review based on Scotland’s specific needs.

 

Under Level 2 restrictions:

 

• Up to six people from three households will be able to meet in each other’s homes or gardens without physical distancing – this was the limit previously planned for Level 1 but has now been accelerated for areas in Level 2. People will be encouraged to use their judgment about close physical contact with others

 

• Up to six people from three households will be able to meet indoors in places such as pubs, cafes and restaurants, while up to eight people from eight households will be able to meet outdoors

 

• Pubs and restaurants will be able to serve alcohol indoors until 10:30pm in two-hour booked slots

 

• Venues including cinemas, theatres, concert halls, music venues, comedy clubs, amusement arcades, casinos, snooker halls and bingo halls will be able to reopen

 

• Events will resume with a maximum capacity of 100 people indoors, 250 outdoors where there is unrestricted standing and 500 for events with seating. Organisers will be allowed to apply to hold bigger events

 

• Outdoor contact sports and indoor group exercise classes will be able to restart

 

• More than one person will be able to sing during religious services

 

• Amateur performing arts groups will be able to perform outdoors

 

• Colleges and universities will have more flexibility to resume in-person learning

 

Members in Wales

 

Wales pilot test events get underway Click Here

 

As the coronavirus restrictions continue to relax in Wales, Welsh Government has announced a proposed list of pilot test events to take place over the forthcoming weeks.

 

The proposed list of all nine pilot test events is as follows:

 

• Eid-al-Fitr: 12 May to 14 May (to be announced, date is agreed on the eve of the event), Cardiff, 300 to 500 attendees

• Tafwyl Festival: 15 May, Cardiff, 500 attendees

• League two play offs fixture Newport County AFC: 18 May, Rodney Parade

• ICCW business event: 20 May, Newport, 100 invited attendees, indoors

• Championships play offs fixture Swansea City AFC: 22 May, Liberty Stadium

• Theatre Brycheiniog: 3 June to 4 June, Theatre Brycheiniog Brecon, Powys, 250 attendees

• Glamorgan v Lancashire: 3 June to 6 June, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, 750 to 1000 spectators

• Wales v Albania: 5 June, Cardiff City Stadium, 4000 spectators

• Fishguard Triathlon: 11 June and 12 June, Fishguard/St David’s, registered participants only

​

AIMS Poultry Members - FSA Webinar Avian Influenza - lessons learnt exercise

 

Thursday 13th May 11:00 to 12:00

 

1. Welcome and introduction 

 

2. Areas for discussion – industry views 

a. Designation/pre-designation of abattoirs 

b. Meat tracings 

c. SHA 

d. Anything else? 

 

3. Areas for discussion – FSA views 

a. Designation/pre-designation of abattoirs 

b. Meat tracings 

c. SHA 

 

4. MOC amendments 

 

5. Next steps 

 

Microsoft Teams meeting 

Join on your computer or mobile app 

Click here to join the meeting Click Here

Or call in (audio only) 

+44 20 3321 5238,,131038702# tel:+442033215238,,131038702#    United Kingdom, London 

Phone Conference ID: 131 038 702# 

 

And Finally…

 

Last night, Channel 4 broadcast a programme called ‘The Money Maker’ in which an investor visited a business that, as a result of the pandemic, was struggling. The programme featured a wholesale bakery supplying the foodservice sector. There were many similarities between the featured business and businesses owned by AIMS members. If you have an hour, catch it on 4OD: Click Here

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

11th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

PM statement at coronavirus press conference: 10th May 2021 Click Here

 

“…the data now support moving to step 3 in England from next Monday 17th May.

 

This means the Rule of Six or two households that has applied outdoors, will now apply indoors and the limit for outdoor meetings will increase to 30.

 

From next Monday you will be able to sit inside a pub and inside a restaurant.

 

You’ll be able to go to the cinema and children will be able to use indoor play areas.

 

We’re re-opening hostels, hotels, and B&Bs.

 

We’ll re-open the doors of our theatres, concert halls and business conference centres and unlock the turnstiles of our sports stadia, subject to capacity limits.

 

And from next week everyone will be able to travel within Britain and stay overnight,…”

 

“Subject to the impact of step 3 on the data, we remain on track to move to step 4 on 21st June and to give businesses more time to prepare, we’ll be saying more later this month about exactly what the world will look like and what role there could be – if any – for certification and social distancing.”

 

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

This guidance has been updated with how the rules will change from Monday 17th May 2021: Click Here

 

We recommend that you take a moment to read this guidance as it also covers the restrictions which will remain in place.

 

Surge testing to be deployed in North Kensington Click Here

 

Working in partnership with Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the W11 postcode in North Kensington.

 

Everybody aged 16 years and over who resides or works in these postcodes is strongly encouraged to take a coronavirus (COVID-19) PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

 

People with symptoms in either area should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Those without symptoms should visit the local authority website for more information: Click Here

 

The guidance “Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants” Click Here has been updated to include Hillingdon Council (targeted areas within the HA4 postcode in Ruislip) and Bolton Council (targeted areas within the BL3 postcode) in the locations using surge testing.

 

Surge testing in Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council has now been completed 

 

Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

There will be two further Coronavirus (COVID-19) Job Retention Scheme webinars providing an overview of:

 

• The extension of the scheme

• How employers will be affected

• Flexible furloughing

• Key dates

• Support available

 

The webinars will be on Wednesday 12th May 09:45 to 10:45 and Tuesday 18th May 1:45 to 2:45.

 

To register for a place: Click Here

 

A catch up webinar for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme - fourth grant has been added: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

10th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Government confirms traffic light list ahead of cautious return to international travel Click Here

 

UK government confirms international travel can gradually resume from 17th  May, as 12 countries and territories are added to the ‘green list’: Click Here

 

Strict rules on testing and quarantine will remain in place to protect public health and our vaccination programme, while people should not travel to ‘amber’ Click Here and ‘red’ Click Here countries for leisure

 

International travel will be different as passengers are warned to expect additional checks and longer queues at the border.

 

Red, amber and green list rules for entering England Click Here

 

GREEN LIST - Click Here

 

You will still need to take a pre-departure test up to 72 hours before their return travel, and a single PCR test on or before day 2 of arrival into England – this can be booked in the same way as is in place now, through private test providers.

 

AMBER LIST - Click Here

 

In addition to the test required under Green List Rules (See Above) you will be required to quarantine at home alongside stringent testing.

 

RED LIST - Click Here

 

In addition to tests required under Green List Rules (See Above) you will be required to undertake 10-day managed hotel quarantine: Click Here

 

Private providers of coronavirus testing Click Here

 

The list of private providers of Coronavirus tests have been updated

 

• List of Providers: General Testing - Click Here

 

• List of providers: Test to Release for international travel - Click Here

 

• Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals Click Here

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status when travelling abroad Click Here

 

This guidance shows how to demonstrate your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination status to show that you’ve had the full course of the COVID-19 vaccine and access this status when travelling abroad.

 

Demonstrating your COVID-19 vaccination status allows you to show others that you’ve had a full course of the COVID-19 vaccine when travelling abroad to some countries or territories. A full course is currently 2 doses of any approved vaccine.

 

COVID-19 vaccination status is available to people who live in England.

 

You can get your vaccination status in digital or paper format.

 

The service will go live from Monday 17th May.

 

You can access your COVID-19 vaccination status through the free NHS App Click Here from 17th May. You can access the app through mobile devices such as a smartphone or by tablet. 

 

Proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status will be shown within the NHS App. 

 

It is recommend that you register with the app before booking international travel.

​

Surge Testing

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Ruislip Click Here

 

Working in partnership with Hillingdon Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the HA4 postcode in Ruislip, Hillingdon. 

 

Between Monday 10th and Sunday 23rd May, Hillingdon Council will be offering additional PCR testing for people without symptoms living or working in the targeted area. 

 

This testing will be available at South Ruislip Young People’s Centre, Victoria Road, HA4 0JE or Haste Hill Golf Course, The Drive, Northwood, HA6 1HN daily between 8am and 8pm. 

 

Attendees are required to book an appointment in advance on the local authority website: Click Here

 

People in this area should also continue using twice-weekly rapid testing alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Bolton Click Here

 

Working in partnership with Bolton Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the BL3 postcodes in Bolton. 

 

People in this area should also continue using twice-weekly rapid testing alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing.

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Those without symptoms should visit the local authority website for more information: Click Here

 

Statement on AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine following JCVI update Click Here

 

Updated advice Click Here has been issued which sets out that, as a precaution, it is preferable for people under the age of 40 with no underlying health conditions to be offered an alternative vaccine where possible once they are eligible, and only if doing so does not cause a substantial delay in accessing a vaccination.

 

Everybody who has already had a first dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine should receive a second dose of the same jab, irrespective of age, except for the very small number of people who experienced blood clots with low platelet counts following their first vaccination

 

COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting Click Here

 

For the revised COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting leaflet: Click Here

 

A government spokesperson said: “The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is safe, effective and has already saved thousands of lives in the UK and around the world.”

 

Help employers with the Kickstart Scheme (Kickstart gateway) Click Here (for Welsh Translation: Click Here)

 

• Information has been added stating that the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) may ask employers for their records to show how funding has been spent. 

 

DWP may ask the employer for their records to show that they’ve spent the funding on setup costs and supporting the young person’s employability

 

• Included information on how the funding is calculated for each young person: Click Here

 

• Also added that gateways will receive an email telling them how to inform DWP about start dates or if someone leaves the job early: Click Here

 

HNPC Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme webinar – Wednesday 12th May 09:45 to 10:45

 

If you're bringing back your employees part time, you can claim flexible furlough for them under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).

 

For the latest information, join our live webinar. You can ask questions throughout using the on-screen text box, although we can't discuss personal circumstances.

 

The webinar will cover

 

• Who can claim 

• Who you can claim for 

• How to calculate what you can claim

• How to apply.

 

To reserve your free place: Click Here

 

REMINDER

 

AIMS Supplier Member Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) are holding a free Employment law webinar on Thursday 13th May 2021 between 10:00 and 11:00 

 

Case law and legislation are constantly changing the face of employment law which has an impact on businesses, with last year and the early half of this year impacted heavily by the COVID 19 pandemic. 

 

Collingwood Legal would like to invite you to our Employment Law Update webinar.

 

The session aims to update you on:

 

• COVID 19 employment law developments, including vaccine passports;

 

• Homeworking and flexible working policies post COVID;

 

• Statutory changes made and on the horizon; 

 

• Key case law developments.

 

As with their previous employment law updates, they will provide guidance as to what these changes mean for businesses generally, how you can prepare your business for future change and the implications of getting it wrong.

 

There will be an opportunity to ask questions of their employment lawyers.

 

To book your free place: Click Here

 

The AIMS lead at Collingwood Legal is Jane Sinnamon

Direct Dial: 0191 282 2884
Mobile: 07788586707
jane.sinnamon@collingwoodlegal.com

 

And Finally…

 

Join Department for International Trade USA and AHDB for insights gleaned from the North American Meat Conference on demand opportunities for British pork products.

 

The Department for International Trade (DIT) has organised a virtual event designed for businesses in: several categories including British Pork

 

New trade deals are opening doors for British businesses in the consumer goods industry with UK products in demand in the US due to their strong reputation for quality, innovation and authenticity.

 

From this event you'll learn from experts about:

 

• Key insights and trends in the US consumer goods industry

 

• Category-specific updates from our in-market specialists

 

• The support DIT provides to businesses on the ground in the US

 

• The opportunities the US offers and how to access them. 

 

Tuesday 11th May 2021 - 13:00-15:00 BST

 

To Book your free place: Click Here

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

7th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

 

REMINDER: 

 

• Claims for furlough days in April 2021 must be made by Friday 14th May 2021.

 

• You can no longer submit claims for claim periods ending on or before 31 October 2020.

​

Private providers of coronavirus testing Click Here

 

Some clarity has been published in relation to the private providers of coronavirus testing

 

The government does not endorse, recommend or approve any private test provider. Individuals and employers should conduct their own research about available providers and the testing services they supply. 

 

For information about customer service, please check consumer review websites. 

 

Locations by region are included next to provider names in each list.

 

The organisations on the lists do not constitute fully UKAS-accredited providers but have demonstrated compliance with the applicable minimum standards, as they progress through the accreditation process.

 

Each scheme has different minimum standards, which means a test provider of general COVID-19 testing may not meet the minimum standards for Test to Release for international arrivals and/or day 2 and 8 testing for international arrivals.

 

The lists of private providers for coronavirus testing have been updated:

 

• Domestic COVID-19 testing - Click Here

 

• Test to Release for international travel - Click Here

 

• Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals - Click Here

 

Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) – Pay As You Grow Click Here

 

The Pay As You Grow (PAYG), as you may recall, will enable businesses who have started repaying their Bounce Back Loans to:

 

• Request an extension of their loan term to 10 years from six years, at the same fixed interest rate of 2.5%

 

• Reduce their monthly repayments for six months by paying interest only. This option is available up to three times during the term of their Bounce Back Loan

 

• Take a repayment holiday for up to six months. This option is available once during the term of their Bounce Back Loan.

 

NOTE:

 

Businesses first began to receive BBLS loans in May 2020 and the first repayments will become due from May 2021 onwards. 

 

Lenders will start to communicate Pay As You Grow (PAYG) options to Bounce Back Loan Scheme borrowers three months before repayments commence.

 

Lenders will inform their customers about PAYG directly, so borrowers should wait until they are contacted by their lender before enquiring about the scheme.

 

Lenders will advise customers about how their repayment options may change according to their choices under the scheme. 

 

Borrowers remain responsible for repaying their Bounce Back Loan and fully liable for the debt.

 

The British Business Bank has a range of guidance and resources available to all businesses, including content on managing your cashflow and a list of independent advice services: Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

AIMS Supplier Member Harrison Clark Rickerbys (www.hcrlaw.com) have published a blog “Why are those packages ticking? – supply chain due diligence” in which they look at sourcing.

 

If you source your products, raw materials or essential services from someone else and have not investigated their origin, you’re placing your company’s reputation at risk and possibly even attracting criminal liability

 

To read the blog: Click Here

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

6th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Transport Secretary meets with G7 leaders to plan for the safe return to international travel Click Here

 

Work to enable the safe return to international travel continued at the G7 summit with a meeting of transport ministers hosted by UK government Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

 

The virtual meeting brought together transport ministers from the US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the EU Commission to identify common goals and principles that will help develop globally recognised travel standards for when international travel reopens.

 

The UK government continues to play a leading role in the development of international standards around digital travel certifications. Work continues across the UK government to prioritise a solution to enable passengers to prove their COVID-19 status for vaccines for outbound travel to another country.

 

Dismissal for COVID-related absence automatically unfair?

 

The Employment Tribunal in the case of Rogers v Leeds Laser Cutting Ltd, has considered whether an employee was automatically unfairly dismissed where he refused to attend work because he believed that the COVID-19 risk at work presented a danger to him and his vulnerable family members.

 

AIMS Supplier Member, Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) have prepared a short blog on the case and it’s implications for employers. To read: Click Here

 

Managing your flexible and hybrid workforce

 

Webinar from Lewis Silkin - Wednesday 13th May 09:30 to 10:30

 

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a huge increase in flexible working, which looks likely to continue as we return to the “new normal”.

 

Many businesses have been considering whether they can dispense with expensive office space, while employees freed from the daily commute may be reluctant to return to a physical building every day.  This session will explore how to manage your flexible and hybrid workforce effectively, covering issues such as health and safety, line management, productivity monitoring, working hours and data security.

 

To Register for your free place: Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: what to expect after vaccination Click Here

 

The guidance leaflet Click Here is now available in the following languages:

 

• Albanian - Click Here

• Amharic - Click Here

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• Chinese - Click Here

• Estonian - Click Here

• Greek - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Kurdish - Click Here

• Latvian - Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Panjabi - Click Here

• Polish - Click Here

• Portuguese Brazilian - Click Here

• Russian - Click Here

• Twi - Click Here

• Ukrainian - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

AIMS Supplier Member, Roythornes Solicitors (www.roythorne.co.uk) have published their latest 1 -2 – 3 interview. This time it is with Wayne Martindale. Wayne is an Associate Professor at the National Centre for Food Manufacturing (NCFM) Click Here where he leads the Food Insights and Sustainability Research Cluster.

 

Having read this interview I can thoroughly recommend it to all members. 

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

5th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

In order to assist business in preparing for ‘Step 3’ Click Here the following guidance has been updated within the “What’s Changed” section: 

 

Restaurants, pubs, bars and takeaway services - Click Here

 

Addition of information for Step 3 of the roadmap. This includes:

 

• Serving customers indoors

 

• Updated social contact rules (gatherings of up to 30 people are permitted outdoors; gatherings of up to 6 people or 2 households of any size are permitted indoors) 

 

• Relaxation of rules around live performances, business events and soft play areas

 

Shops and branches - Click Here

 

Addition of guidance for Step 3 of the roadmap.

 

• At Step 3, gatherings of up to 30 are permitted outdoors and gatherings of up to 6 or 2 households are permitted indoors.

 

New from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and ACAS

 

Although many employees have worked from home for an extended period during the pandemic, research (such as from YouGov and the CIPD) has shown that post-COVID, most employees would prefer a balance where they are in the office for some of the week and at home for the remainder, known as hybrid working.

 

Whilst this obviously won’t suit every role in members’ businesses some staff may be able to work in this manner which could be used as a means to help your business reduce emissions and increase site space. 

 

The CIPD have just published their Line manager’s guide on supporting hybrid working Click Here

 

You can also download their new flowchart Click Here which assesses roles for hybrid working and questionnaire templates Click Here which are designed to help start discussions around hybrid working and agree flexible working arrangements.

 

The CIPD have also provided a recorded of their last webinar which provided advice on how employers can best rebuild trust and working relationships as workers are reintroduced into to the workplace: Click Here

 

On Thursday 6th May 2021 at 12:30pm the CIPD will be running a webinar looking at supporting the mental wellbeing of frontline workers.

 

After a year of intense and traumatic working conditions for frontline and key workers, many are suffering from burnout and are at risk of suffering from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. Employers have a vital role to support their mental wellbeing now and beyond the pandemic.

Join our webinar to learn how to effectively support the mental health of your frontline and key workers, the role of occupational health in discussing the support available and the need for a compassionate leadership culture to tackle stigma around mental health.

 

To register for your free place: Click Here

 

In addition, ACAS, has also published guidance for employers and employees on Coronavirus and mental health at work Click Here

 

ACAS have also published Long COVID – advice for employers and employees Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting Click Here

 

Information on COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting is now available as a British Sign Language Video: Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

Farmers Guardian launches the Farming Can campaign

 

• You're on a health kick, stood in the supermarket and wondering what is best to buy?

• You're on a countryside walk, wondering how to know where you can walk, and if it's safe to let your dog off the lead?

• You're watching David Attenborough, wondering what is happening near you to protect the planet?

 

Where do you look? What do you believe? How do you find out the facts?

Over the next 12 months, #FarmingCAN will distil real-life farming stories, initiatives, case studies and strategies into relevant, bitesize messages for the general public.

We will be sharing this information with the public using our social media channels @FarmingCAN to provide farming facts; answering their questions, dispelling myths and putting the real truth out there to demonstrate how farming is adapting, explain what is being done and bring the public and farmers closer together.

 

To watch the launch film: Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL 

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

4th May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Surge testing to be deployed in Hounslow Click Here

 

Working in partnership with the local authority, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing targeted in and around the Woodlands area of Hounslow, Middlesex. 

 

People with symptoms in either area should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Those without symptoms should visit the borough’s website for more information: Click Here

 

Coronavirus: Commission proposes to ease restrictions on non-essential travel to the EU while addressing variants through new ‘emergency brake' mechanism Click Here

 

The European Commission is proposing that Member States ease the current restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU to take into account the progress of vaccination campaigns and developments in the epidemiological situation worldwide.

 

The Commission proposes to allow entry to the EU for non-essential reasons not only for all persons coming from countries with a good epidemiological situation but also all people who have received the last recommended dose of an EU-authorised vaccine. This could be extended to vaccines having completed the WHO emergency use listing process. In addition, the Commission proposes to raise, in line with the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the EU, the threshold related to the number of new COVID-19 cases used to determine a list of countries from which all travel should be permitted. This should allow the Council to expand this list. 

 

Private providers of coronavirus testing Click Here

 

The list of businesses providing private coronavirus testing has been updated.

 

Domestic COVID-19 testing - Click Here

 

Test to Release for international travel - Click Here

 

Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals - Click Here

 

And Finally…

 

As some members may recall AIMS are part of an expert panel working with the University of Exeter Centre for Rural Policy Research on the Food Impacts of Covid-19: Click Here

 

Their monthly newsletter is now available: Click Here

 

Topics covered this month include:

 

• Reopening of Hospitality - Click Here

 

• EFRA Select Committee Report - Click Here

 

• UN Food Systems Summit 2021 - Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

3rd May

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

New Areas with Surge Testing

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Tower Hamlets Click Here

 

Working in partnership with Tower Hamlets Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within E1 postcodes from Sunday 2nd May 2021.

 

Surge testing to be deployed in Redbridge Click Here

 

Working in partnership with Redbridge Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the IG1 and IG6 postcode areas and small parts of the IG5 and IG7 postcode areas.

 

People with symptoms in either area should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Those without symptoms should visit the borough’s website for more information.

 

• For London Borough of Tower Hamlets: Click Here

 

• For London Borough of Redbridge: Click Here

 

Government to launch 40,000 person daily contact testing study Click Here

 

A new study led by Public Health England and NHS Test and Trace will help increase understanding of how effective daily contact testing could be for people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases. It is to be used as an alternative to self-isolation.

 

Daily coronavirus tests will be given to as many as 40,000 people who have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, in a new government-backed study designed to gather evidence on safe alternatives to self-isolation for people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases.

 

If successful, the study – led by the UK Health Security Agency (including Public Health England and NHS Test and Trace) – could provide evidence to help to reduce the length of time people who are contacts of positive COVID-19 cases need to self-isolate, as parts of the economy and society reopen through the Roadmap. 

 

A reduction in the period of self-isolation from 10 days could help prevent individuals having to miss work, while allowing people to continue to safely participate in society.

 

COVID-19: guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection Click Here

 

The guidance Click Here has been updated to include Universal Testing Offer.

 

NHS Test and Trace in the workplace Click Here

 

The Action Cards which were previously promoted as direction for managing an outbreak of coronavirus in the workplace have now been rescinded. 

 

COVID-19: long-term health effects Click Here

 

This guidance Click Here provides information about post-acute COVID-19, also known as Long COVID.

 

The NHS has developed resources to help those affected by COVID-19 in the support of their recovery. 

 

‘Your COVID Recovery’ Click Here aims to help those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, including Long COVID, to understand the virus and what they might expect as part of their recovery

 

COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable Click Here

 

The translations of the guidance Click Here have been updated.

 

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• Simplified Chinese - Click Here

• Traditional Chinese - Click Here

• French – Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Nepali - Click Here

• Polish – Click Here

• Portuguese - Click Here

• Punjabi – Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

 

Coronavirus - Haulier and other commercial vehicles destined for the EU.

 

Haulier advice site locations Click Here

 

The following haulier advice and information sites have closed: 

 

• Formula Services, Junction 38 Penrith 

• Strensham Northbound

• Sutton Scotney Northbound 

• Watford Gap Northbound 

 

The following haulier advice and information sites now offer COVID-19 testing only: 

 

• Beaconsfield 

• Cullompton

• Fleet Southbound 

• Hartshead Moor

• Heywood Distribution Truck Stop 

• Leicester Forest East Northbound

• Orwell Crossing Truck Stop

• Sandbach Northbound

• Sutton Scotney Southbound

• The Stockyard Truck Stop Rotherham 

• Woodall Northbound

 

In Addition drivers no longer need proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter the Netherlands: Click Here

 

Warning

 

There have been several incidents involving members in relation to processing. These include:

 

• A Halal processor receiving an inaccurate review of his business on Google. We undertook some investigation and concluded that the author of the review was unlikely to have ever had any association with the business. Despite our best and on-going efforts we have been unable to get Google to remove the post.

 

• A poultry producing member was contacted by someone claiming that they were considering buying products from him. They asked at length about how the birds were processed making several reference to religious slaughter. Our investigations concluded that this enquiry had come from a far-right sympathiser

 

• We were contacted by the AHDB press office in relation to an abattoir who was contacted by phone at 4.30pm on a Friday by someone asking about their Halal production. The abattoir in question is an AIMS member. The person repeatedly challenged the member over production and their assurance in two highly abusive phone calls (which we have heard) and threatened to go the press. Clearly he did go to the press which was how AHDB became involved. To date we have not seen anything published or on Social Media.

 

• Turning to Social Media a somewhat cryptic post was placed on Facebook in relation to AIMS bearing our old logo. Our thanks go to the member who alerted us. Although the post has been taken down the screen shot we received from our member did show that 3 people had commented. We have traced the author but at present have taken the decision not to contact him but are instead monitoring his posts.

 

As someone said to us recently, now that restrictions around the pandemic are lifting so the ‘activism’ is restarting. The issues above are all in relation to Halal however no doubt the anti-meat activists and extremists will be looking to generate stories for the media. 

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

30th April

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Who can get the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

People aged 40 and over in England can now get the vaccine.

 

You can get the COVID-19 vaccine if:

 

• You're aged 40 or over

 

• You'll turn 40 before 1 July 2021

 

To book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination Click Here

 

Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

A catch up webinar about Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rebate Scheme has been added: Click Here

 

In addition, the YouTube video about the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme has been updated: Click Here

 

Daily contact testing study Click Here

 

Information for employers of people taking part in the NHS Test and Trace daily contact testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) study.

 

The study is led by PHE and funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Its purpose is to find out if daily testing can replace the need for self-isolating for people without symptoms if their test result is negative.

 

As an employer you should already have in place control measures to reduce the risk of transmission in your workplace. You will have determined this in your COVID-19 risk assessment. Nothing in this guidance supersedes your legal duties.

 

Currently, everyone who’s been notified by NHS Test and Trace that they’ve been in contact with someone who’s tested positive for COVID-19 in England must self-isolate for 10 full days.

 

NHS Test and Trace will invite people who have been traced as a contact to take part in the study, providing they do not have symptoms.

 

Private providers of coronavirus testing Click Here

 

The list of businesses providing private coronavirus testing has been updated.

 

• Domestic COVID-19 testing - Click Here

 

• Test to Release for international travel - Click Here

 

• Providers of day 2 and day 8 coronavirus testing for international arrivals - Click Here

 

One to Watch

 

There are some reports that the NHS App (this is not the NHS Test & Trace App) will be used as a ‘Covid-19 passport’. We will keep members updated but in the meantime below is how this is being reported at present.

 

NHS App to be used as Covid-19 passport, transport secretary confirms Click Here

 

The NHS App is to be used as a Covid-19 passport for travel overseas, the transport secretary has confirmed. 

 

Confusion over use of NHS App as Covid passport Click Here

 

Transport secretary Grant Shapps appeared to confirm in a recent interview that England's NHS app would be used as a vaccine passport.

 

Travel restrictions are due to ease on 17th May, after which foreign travel can resume.

 

However a government source told the BBC the app would not be ready "imminently".

 

It is connected to GP services in England and linked to personal health data.

 

People can use the NHS app to request repeat prescriptions, message their doctor and organise online consultations. 

 

It is completely separate from the NHS Covid-19 app, which is used for contact-tracing.

 

The NHS app is already able to display vaccine statuses, including Covid-19 jabs - but this must be enabled by GPs, and while some seem to do this by default, other surgeries ask patients to request it.

 

Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi told BBC Breakfast that work was under way on preparing it to act as a passport - this could involve it having access to not only vaccine status, but also to most recent test results.

"NHSx [the NHS's digital division]...are working on making that operationally possible for the 17th of May," he said.

 

But in a statement, the Department of Health and Social Care said only that the app was "being considered as part of the digital route".

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

29th April

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Health and Social Care Secretary's statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 28th April 2021 Click Here

 

The key part of the speech was in relation to booster vaccination.

 

“The vaccine is helping us to bring back our freedom and we must protect this progress.

 

The biggest risk to that progress is the risk posed by a new variant.

 

So we’re working on our plans for booster shots too.

 

To keep us safe and free here while we get this disease under control across the whole world.

 

We’ve been working on a programme of booster shots again for over a year now.

 

And we’ve backed some of the only clinical trials in the world looking specifically at booster shots.

 

I’m delighted to be able to tell you that we’ve secured a further 60 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

 

And that will be used, alongside others, as part of our booster shot programme from later this year.

 

And that is all about protecting the progress that we’ve made.”

 

UK secures extra 60 million Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines Click Here

 

An extra 60 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine have been secured by the UK government to help support the booster COVID-19 vaccination programme beginning from the Autumn.

 

To protect the most vulnerable ahead of the winter, the government is preparing for a booster programme based on clinical need to ensure people have the strongest possible protection against COVID-19.

 

One dose of COVID-19 vaccine can cut household transmission by up to half Click Here

 

A new study by Public Health England (PHE) has shown that one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine reduces household transmission by up to half.

 

Heatwave Plan for England Click Here

 

The Heatwave Plan for England remains unchanged for summer 2021. 

 

Additional actions may be needed due to COVID-19 and specific resources are available to download. These include a Beat the Heat and Covid 19 Poster: Click Here and accompanying leaflet: Click Here

 

New one-off £500 payment for working households receiving tax credits Click Here

 

If you are eligible, you should get your payment direct to your bank account by 23rd April 2021. 

 

The payment will appear in your bank statement as ‘HMRC C19 support’. 

 

You will not see the payment on the online tax credit service.

 

The payment is non-taxable and will not affect your benefits. 

 

You do not need to declare it as income for Self-Assessment tax returns or for tax credit claims and renewals.

 

Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants Click Here

 

Surge testing that has been taking place in several London Boroughs has now completed.

 

The only areas now undertaking surge testing are those previously covered on AIMS Updates in Birmingham and Sandwell. These are:

 

• Birmingham City Council (Ladywood, Soho and Jewellery Quarter, Alum Rock, Glebe Farm and Tile Cross, and Bordesley and Highgate wards)

 

• Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council (B66 3, B66 4 and B67 6)

 

Members in Scotland

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Information for individuals and businesses in Scotland Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to reflect latest Scottish Government from 26th April and the links to UK Government schemes that have now closed have been removed.

 

And Finally…

 

AIMS Supplier Member Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) are holding a free Employment law webinar on Thursday 13th May 2021 between 10:00 and 11:00 

 

Case law and legislation are constantly changing the face of employment law which has an impact on businesses, with last year and the early half of this year impacted heavily by the COVID 19 pandemic. 

 

Collingwood Legal would like to invite you to our Employment Law Update webinar.

 

The session aims to update you on:

 

• COVID 19 employment law developments, including vaccine passports;

 

• Homeworking and flexible working policies post COVID;

 

• Statutory changes made and on the horizon; 

 

• Key case law developments.

 

As with their previous employment law updates, they will provide guidance as to what these changes mean for businesses generally, how you can prepare your business for future change and the implications of getting it wrong.

 

There will be an opportunity to ask questions of their employment lawyers.

 

To book your free place: Click Here

 

The AIMS lead at Collingwood Legal is Jane Sinnamon

Direct Dial: 0191 282 2884
Mobile: 07788586707
jane.sinnamon@collingwoodlegal.com

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

28th April

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination

 

People aged 42 and over: Click Here

 

You can get the COVID-19 vaccine if:

 

• You're aged 42 or over

 

• You'll turn 42 before 1 July 2021

 

You can book appointments at a larger vaccination centre or pharmacy now: Click Here or wait to be invited to go to a local NHS service.

 

For further details visit the NHS website: Who can get the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

You can currently have the COVID-19 vaccine if you are over the age of 50.

 

Further details can be found on NHS Inform: Click Here

 

Members in Wales

 

You can currently have the COVID-19 vaccine if you are over the age of 40

 

Further details can be found on the Welsh Governments Coronavirus vaccine page: Click Here

 

Members in Northern Ireland

 

You can currently have the COVID-19 vaccine if you are over the aged 35 or over at 30th April 2021

 

Further details can be found on the NI Direct Website: Click Here

 

Will we keep members informed of changes to the age bands for vaccination across the UK via our daily updates

 

How to report self-isolation support payments Click Here

 

Find out how to report support payments relating to self-isolation due to coronavirus (COVID-19), on your Self-Assessment tax return.

 

• What to do if you’re an employee - Click Here

 

• What to do if you’re self-employed or a partner in a trading partnership - Click Here

 

• If you’ve submitted a return without the required adjustments - Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting Click Here

 

This guidance Click Here summarises the benefits and risks of the COVID-19 vaccination and is now available in the following languages:

 

• Albanian - Click Here

• Amharic - Click Here

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali – Click Here

• Brazilian -  Click Here

• Bulgarian - Click Here

• Chinese - Click Here

• Estonian - Click Here

• Greek - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Hindi - Click Here

• Kurdish - Click Here

• Latvian – Click Here

• Lithuanian - Click Here

• Polish – Click Here

• Portuguese – Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Russian - Click Here

• Twi - Click Here

• Ukrainian - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace: what to do if you are contacted Click Here

 

The information has been updated to add a second portal that you will be asked to sign into if and when NHS Test and Trace contacts you

 

If NHS Test and Trace contacts you, the service will use text messages, email or phone.

 

All texts or emails will ask you to sign into one of these 2 NHS portals:

 

NHS Test and Trace - Click Here

 

NHS Test and Trace contact tracing - Click Here

 

If NHS Test and Trace calls you by phone, the service will be using the phone number 0300 013 5000.

 

All information you provide to NHS Test and Trace is held in strict confidence and will only be kept and used in line with the Data Protection Act 2018.

 

And Finally…

 

Meet Tim Rycroft, AHDB's New CEO

 

Tim Rycroft has been appointed to lead the AHDB team and takes up the role of Chief Executive on Tuesday 31st August 2021.

Tim joins AHDB having recently stepped down from the Food and Drink Federation and in this ‘getting to know you’ interview, John Bates asks about his career and why he was attracted to lead the levy board.

 

To listen to the podcast (25 minutes): Click Here

​

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

27th April

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

COVID-19: guidance for food businesses Click Here

 

The guidance Click Here has been updated in line with Step 2 changes, allowing hospitality businesses to serve food outdoors. 

 

Added information on:

 

Ventilation:

 

Employers should provide employees with clear guidance on ventilation, why it is important, and instruction on how to achieve and maintain good natural ventilation or to operate systems if there are user controls.

 

Steps on how to improve ventilation Click Here while maintaining a comfortable temperature in the workplace is available as part of the HSE guidance Click Here on making your workplace COVID-secure during the coronavirus pandemic.

​

Asymptomatic testing programmes - Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: guide for adults Click Here

 

The phase 2 leaflet has been updated Click Here in line with the next steps for the vaccination programme which covers people aged 42 or over

 

People aged 42 and over

 

You can get the COVID-19 vaccine if:

 

• You're aged 42 or over

 

• You'll turn 42 before 1 July 2021

 

You can book appointments at a larger vaccination centre or pharmacy now: Click Here or wait to be invited to go to a local NHS service.

 

For further details visit the NHS website: Who can get the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine Click Here

 

There is likely to be a further update on the vaccination programme later this week. Please check your AIMS Updates daily for details.

​

(COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do Click Here

 

The Scottish Government travel restrictions have been updated:

 

Travelling to or from Scotland

 

From Monday 26th April 2021 there are no restrictions on entering or leaving Scotland as long as you are travelling within the UK or Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man. 

 

Before travelling to Scotland Click Here you should check the latest Scottish Government guidance as rules may change depending on the state of the pandemic.

 

You can leave England to travel to Scotland and there are no restrictions on entering England from Scotland. 

 

The different parts of the Common Travel Area (Wales, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man) may also have rules in place that restrict travel to or from Scotland. You should check the restrictions in place before making arrangements to travel.

 

Non-essential travel between Scotland and the Republic of Ireland remains restricted under Scottish law, but the restriction will be kept under review. 

 

Under the restrictions it is illegal to travel between Scotland and the Republic of Ireland unless you have a reasonable excuse. 

 

Travelling for a holiday is not a reasonable excuse. 

 

See the Scottish Government guidance for more information: Click Here

 

Members in Scotland

 

Regular rapid testing for everyone Click Here

 

Free lateral flow test kits will be available for anyone without symptoms.

 

From Monday 26th April 2021 everyone in Scotland will be able to access rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing, even if they have no symptoms.

 

Free lateral flow home test kits will be available for pick up without an appointment from many local walk-in or drive-through test sites from 3.30pm each day, or by ordering online or by phone, for people to test themselves twice-weekly.

 

To check where your nearest testing site is: Click Here

 

Check In Scotland launches Click Here

 

A new digital service to support businesses in collecting contact details for contact tracing purposes, Check in Scotland, is now available in participating venues.

 

More than 6,400 venues have so far signed up to use this voluntary service for businesses in Scotland, supporting them to effectively collect the contact details of their visitors and customers.

 

To download the Check In Scotland App visit:

 

Google Play Store: Click Here

 

Apple App Store: Click Here

 

For older phones that cannot read QR codes, you can download QR code reading apps. If you cannot scan a Check In Scotland QR code, a short URL is printed on Check In Scotland posters that can be typed into your phone's internet browser.

 

If you do not have a mobile phone or cannot access the internet, the business or venue you've visiting must take your contact details using a pen and paper.

 

REMINDER - EU Settlement Scheme and the Points-Based Immigration System webinar

 

The webinar with DEFRA on the EU Settlement Scheme with particular reference to the poultry industry and seasonal workers is on Thursday 29 April, 14:00 – 15:00

 

The webinar will be held on Teams:

Click here to join the meeting

Or call in (audio only)

+44 20 3321 5273,,330102110#

Phone Conference ID: 330 102 110# 

​

If you are not in poultry processing but have an interest in the EU Settlement Scheme and the Points-Based Immigration System please feel free to join the webinar.

 

And Finally…

 

What are the equality implications of a COVID-Passport?

 

AIMS Supplier Member, Collingwood Legal (www.collingwoodlegal.com) have published their latest blog looking at “What are the equality implications of a COVID-Passport?”

 

To read what we found to be a really insightful piece: Click Here

 

The AIMS lead at Collingwood Legal is Jane Sinnamon

Direct Dial: 0191 282 2884
Mobile: 07788586707
jane.sinnamon@collingwoodlegal.com

 

Everyone at AIMS is here to support any members, please email if you have any questions.

 

MORE THAN EVER PLEASE STAY SAFE – STAY WELL

​

Click Here to return to Members Area

​

26th April

Please circulate this update to all relevant staff within your business.

​

Further surge testing to be deployed in Birmingham Click Here

 

Additional testing and genomic sequencing is now being provided in a targeted area within the Bordesley and Highgate ward in Birmingham by NHS Test and Trace in partnership with the local authority.

 

This is in addition to the surge testing currently taking place in other parts of Birmingham and Sandwell: Click Here

 

People with symptoms should book a free test online Click Here or by phone (Call 119) so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home. 

 

Those without symptoms should visit the Birmingham City Council website for more information: Click Here

 

COVID-19: ventilation of indoor spaces to stop the spread of coronavirus Click Here

 

An easy read version of the guidance is now available: Click Here

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested Click Here

 

The guidance has been updated to merge links to 'find a pharmacy where you can collect rapid tests' and 'find a test site where you can collect rapid tests' into link to 'find where to collect test kits or get a test at a test site' in 'Who can be tested' section: Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: women of childbearing age, currently pregnant or breastfeeding Click Here

 

An updated  version of COVID-19 vaccination: a guide for all women of childbearing age, pregnant or breastfeeding is now available (English version only at present): Click Here

 

COVID-19 vaccination: 3 x Ramadan posters Click Here

 

Poster A - Click Here

Poster B - Click Here

Poster C - Click Here

 

How to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Click Here

 

Updated translations of the guidance have now been published.

 

• Arabic - Click Here

• Bengali - Click Here

• Simplified Chinese – Click Here

• Traditional Chinese - Click Here

• French - Click Here

• Gujarati - Click Here

• Polish – Click Here

• Portuguese – Click Here

• Punjabi - Click Here

• Urdu - Click Here

 

The Easy Read version has also been updated: Click Here

 

Members in Wales