BCP Council and Dorset Police are visiting local supermarkets to make sure current Covid-19 restrictions are being adhered to.

Since the beginning of January, BCP Council Environmental Health and Trading Standards teams have received 69 complaints concerning compliance with the legislation, the majority of which relate to supermarkets and other retail businesses. Subsequentl, the teams have visited the establishments.

The teams say these visits have been very well received, with retailers keen to do all they can to keep customers and staff safe. In some cases, retailers have closed off non-essential clothing, homeware and concession areas; others are ceasing click and collect services or strengthening their approach regarding face coverings and enhancing messaging at entrances. Some retailers will also be deploying security guards or COVID marshals to manage customer numbers and keep shoppers safe.

There have also been complaints about customers not social distancing or wearing face masks. The council is to work with Dorset Police, Trading Standards and COVID marshals to conduct joint visits to all supermarkets across the BCP Council area to deal with the complaints received and help ensure the premises are safe to visit. This involves engagement from the police and COVID marshals with store management and the public whilst Environmental Health officers and Trading Standards officers are completing on site assessment of compliance with COVID regulations.

Cllr May Haines, portfolio holder for community safety, BCP Council said, “It is encouraging to hear of the successful work between the council and retailers, and we are looking forward to our joint working with Dorset Police to continue our engagement to protect our community. With the worrying news on the rising case rates, it is really welcome that they are playing their part to keep everyone safe.

“If you are vulnerable and don’t have a support network nearby, please contact our Together We Can team on 0300 1237052 who will be able to get food and essential items for you.”