13 March 2020

Covid-19 public health and business support update

This update includes:

• COVID-19 update   

There continues to be some confusion and misinformation about the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in the UK (especially on social media). Members are advised to continue using official sources for up to date information. You can access these as follows:

England

• SOP for optical practices
• Guidance for clinicians

Northern Ireland

• Public Health Agency (COVID-19)

Scotland

• Health Protection Scotland (guidance for primary care)
• Advice for GOS providers

Wales

• Public Health Wales (COVID-19)

More general overview and useful resources

• NHS advice – including dos and don’ts
• NHS 111 self-assessment tool
• Access the most recent data on COVID-19

Business advice

If you are an employer or a business owner the government encourages you to read and follow its guidance for employers and businesses.

As reported in FODO’s budget update for eye care providers, the government has announced a series of measures to support businesses affected by COVID-19. This includes temporarily increasing the business rates retail discount in England to 100% for 2020-21 for properties below £51,000 rateable value.

Businesses struggling to meet tax commitments due to short-term cash flow issues might also be able to access government support. Learn more or call the dedicated HMRC helpline on 0800 0159 559.

Practice owners might also find advice issued by the CBI helpful as it covers tips on managing daily operations (including cleaning and supply chain management), signposting HR teams to government advice for employers, communication with staff, and managing sick pay and sickness at work. The CBI will continue to update this resource and members might find it useful to monitor. Learn more. 

FODO is in regular contact with all part of the NHS and will keep members up to date with any major developments. If you have any questions, please contact us [email protected] 

Contractual Issues

The Optical Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) is in talks with NHS England to keep the optical sector supported and treating patients during this and the next phases of the pandemic. Similar negotiations will be happening in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in respect of the arrangements there. Helping domiciliary businesses who are facing multiple cancellations is a top priority. We will keep members posted as soon as there is any news.