VisitEngland partners with national tourist organisations to launch industry standard for UK tourism

VisitEngland in partnership with the national tourist organisations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales has launched a UK-wide industry standard for the tourism sector ahead of its reopening. The ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard and supporting mark means businesses can demonstrate that they have adhered to the respective government and public health guidance, have carried out a Covid-19 risk assessment and checked that they have the required processes in place. The scheme is free to join and open to all businesses across the industry. Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “I want to encourage the public to experience a great British holiday this summer and be confident that they can do so safely. “This new industry standard will show people that tourism businesses, destinations and attractions are adhering to the guidance. It puts safety first and is an important move in getting this industry back up and running.” Patricia Yates, director, VisitEngland, commented: “With millions of jobs and local economies across the country reliant on tourism it is essential that businesses can get up and running as soon as the respective Government advice allows to capture the peak British summer season. “We want visitors to be able to enjoy their holidays and to support businesses to be confident they have the correct procedures in place. Our priority is to make sure tourism rebounds to once again become one of the most successful sectors of the UK economy and this ‘ring of confidence’ is a crucial step on the industry’s road to rebuilding.” The Meetings Industry Association has backed the programme. CEO Jane Longhurst added: “The mia is delighted to support the ‘We’re Good To Go’ self-certification scheme and assist the sector accessing the new standard. It is imperative that we, as an industry, meticulously plan and play our part in actively demonstrating the high standards of compliance and hygiene in which we operate to rebuild consumer confidence. “This latest initiative is just part of a whole host of activities that the mia has put in place to assist the industry with its reopening preparations. In addition to enhancing AIM to include a number of vital infection prevention and control protocols and offering contract guidance, our Roadmap to reopening and operating safely has been signposted as a key resource in both the Government’s ‘Visitor Economy Guidance’ as well as UK Hospitality’s COVID-Secure advice for the hospitality industry.”