SAFETY FIRST FOR HIGH STREETS

Regulatory COVID-19 Support Officers and Enforcement Officers have been out and about on Brent high streets speaking to shoppers and business owners to make sure the COVID-19 rules are being followed and shoppers are safe

The teams’ typical day will involve visiting various business premises, ranging from small independents to large superstores. Although the council has no powers to fine individuals for not wearing face coverings, this is by far the most common breach that the officers advise on.

In January 2021, the team issued large fines to a barbers that was caught blatantly breaking the national lockdown rules, which requires all non-essential personal care facilities such as hairdressers and beauty salons to close. The barber had blacked out his windows but was secretly cutting people’s hair inside with no facemasks or social distancing. Hefty fines were also issued to a local shisha bar that was illegally open and serving customers inside.

Cllr Promise Knight. Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement, said: “The majority of Brent shops have respected the rules and followed them and I’m grateful to them for doing so.

“Unfortunately, a small minority believe that they are above the rules. With so many people ill and dying in Brent, this is a selfish act and we will continue to enforce where necessary to protect our local communities.

“There is support available for businesses who need it, so please get in contact and let us know how we can help.”

Since November the teams have:

 Checked over 20,000 businesses  Investigated over 300 COVID-19 related complaints  Asked 88 businesses to close  Issued 16 formal notices to businesses open in breach of the rules

Brent enforcement officers: working with local businesses SHOP SAFE SHOP LOC A L

BRENT

Brent enforcement officers: making sure shoppers and shopkeepers are sdafe