FROM Monday (9 August) self isolation rules are set to change in Scotland, in a move that could reduce staff shortages for retailers.
In a virtual address to the Scottish Parliament, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon revealed that close contacts of individuals with Covid will not be required to isolate, provided they meet certain vaccination criteria. Those who have been double vaccinated for at least a two-week period will be able to come out of self isolation provided they secure a negative PCR test result. Currently, all close contacts of a Covid positive individual must self isolate for ten days.
The First Minister also announced that, with the exception of schools, social distancing rules will end on 9 August. Face coverings will still be mandatory in enclosed spaces, including retail premises, and the First Minister said this was likely to be the case “for some time to come.”
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, Scottish Retail Consortium head of policy, welcomed the changes. He said: “Retailers will hope next week’s relaxation of Covid restrictions will spark a shopping recovery after a very difficult year. Removing restrictions such as physical distancing in shops and welcome changes on self-isolation rules, should simplify store operations. However, many retailers are likely to maintain some existing measures to keep customers and colleagues safe.”
