Welcome to the Coronavirus Hub
Accessible to all, it is here that we will be sharing the very latest Government advice, together with business support tools, guidance and best practice. This page shows the latest headline announcements made by the UK and the devolved nation governments. For full details of the latest restrictions for each devolved nation please see the devolved nations tab on the right hand side.
Don't forget, our Membership Services team is also fully operational and on standby to take your calls (01784 223663/ membership@britishmarine.co.uk). We offer a wide range of services including legal advice, technical guidance and crisis management support.
Prime Minister announces the end of COVID-19 restrictions - 15/07/2021
Earlier this week Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that England would move to Step 4 in its route map.
Speaking alongside the chief scientific adviser and chief medical officer he said that whilst more restrictions were being lifted we could not simply revert to life as it was before COVID-19.
The Prime Minister also said that whilst the requirement for social distancing was being lifted, he expected and recommended that people continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces to help limit the spread of the virus.
As a result of the changes, from the 19 July there will be no restrictions on the numbers that can meet – including in both indoor and outdoor settings. In addition, the restrictions on the number of people which can attend weddings and funerals will be removed. Large-scale events will not require certification and table service at bars and restaurants will not be mandatory.
Our members should note that whilst the Government requirement to work at home is being relaxed from this date, ministers do not expect the whole country to return as soon as possible. Further guidance for businesses will be issued over the summer on a gradual return to the office.
British Marine members can read the announcement in full here.
Our members should note that the devolved administrations have adopted different approaches and this advice therefore only applies to England.
Conducting a risk assessment
Members should also note that it is a legal requirement for businesses to undertake a risk assessment process to help mitigate the risks of Covid-19 for their staff, customers and contractors. The Health and Safety Executive has a dedicated webpage designed to help businesses complete this. You can find more information on risk assessments and what you need to do here.
We would advise boaters to check the latest advice from their navigation authority before travelling.
Guidance on marina responsibilities from the Department for Transport
British Marine has sought clarification from DfT on the publication of international travel advice and the requirement to check COVID-19 measures have been followed by international travellers.
Following our engagement with the department, we can confirm that there is no requirement for marinas to check border measures have been followed by persons onboard pleasure craft when they arrive in the UK. If there is a requirement for Border Force to attend they will check the border requirements and take any appropriate action if needed.
How British Marine can help you
We would encourage our members to read the most up to date information and advice from the Government. Members can visit the dedicated NHS webpage which provides further information on symptoms and what to do if you think you might have the Coronavirus.
For advice on hire conditions and cancellations related to COVID-19, members should contact our membership services team for details of the Epoq legal helpline.
Please contact us If your business is affected to ensure we can discuss the support available with you.
The information on this webpage is provided as general guidance. Although British Marine tries to ensure that all of the information is accurate and up to date, this cannot be guaranteed owing to the very fast moving situation. Members should review the Government’s full guidance themselves by following the links in this webpage and should keep up to date with the Government’s latest announcements. The information on this webpage should not be construed as constituting professional advice and we would always advise that members consider seeking appropriate professional advice before taking or refraining from taking any action.
21 Nov 2023
METSTRADE 2023 has proved a great success for British Marine members as thousands of visitors headed to the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems.
14 Nov 2023
Fund Britain's Waterways message delivered to Westminster
14 Jun 2023
The British Marine Trades Association (BMTA) is firmly back in the calendar as an anchor event for marine businesses recognising and celebrating successes in the UK leisure marine industry.
06 Mar 2023
This week is National Careers Week (06-11 March). To kick start the week British Marine, the trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry, shares some top tips on how to find a career in the marine sector.
06 Feb 2023
Apprenticeships offer a great way to learn and gain qualifications, while taking home a salary and gaining valuable occupational experience, whatever your age or stage of your career, and there are a whole host of opportunities available within the marine sector.
20 Dec 2022
Disappointing outcome felt by the Royal Yachting Association, British Marine, Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents, and the Cruising Association.