Cold Chain Federation: Recent Covid-19 Policy Updates

NEW MEASURES INTRODUCED SO FAR THIS WEEK

From the 25th March (today) companies have been granted the ability to apply for a 3 month extension for filing accounts during Covid-19. Guidance on how to apply for the extension can be found here.
Extension to MOT testing for 6 months for cars and light vans (up to 3,000kg) from the 30th March– it remains the vehicle owners duty to ensure the vehicle is ‘roadworthy’, garages are permitted to stay open for repairs during this time. More information is available here.
Further guidance released on business support grant funding to businesses – setting out details of eligibility and delivery of the Small Business Grants Fund (SBGF) and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund (RHLGF). More information here.
Updates to the existing guidance for businesses and employers on managing Covid-19, including added details about protection from eviction for commercial tenants and further guidance added about commercial insurance policies. See the suite of guidance here.

In response to recent reports of unsatisfactory treatment of drivers delivering critical consignments to warehouses due to the risk Covid-19 transmission, the Cold Chain Federation has worked with its members to produce guidelines on measures businesses can take to minimise the transmission risk to their staff whilst maintaining welfare standards for drivers. Please share with your staff/customers as appropriate.

Temporary changes to driver CPC requirements to minimise transmission risk during tuition and to free drivers up to fulfil deliveries.
Temporary changes to driver medical requirements.
Further information on how businesses can designate workers as ‘furloughed’ and a new support package for the self-employed.
Relaxation of competition laws across food supply chains (not just for retailers).