AA launches Covid Confident accreditation scheme to highlight businesses meeting guidelines

The AA is to launch a new Covid Confident accreditation scheme to highlight hospitality businesses meeting coronavirus safety guidelines and to reassure consumers.

The AA Covid Confident accreditation will signpost businesses that have put in place risk assessments, safety measures and staff training, in line with the government and UKHospitality's published guidelines.

It has been been given the backing of 20 industry bodies including Master Innholders, HOSPA, Institute of Hospitality, B&B Association, Glamping Association, PASC, ASSC and the Tourism Alliance.

Simon Numphud, managing director of AA Media, said: "At the AA we are committed to supporting our colleagues across the industry as we work together to rebuild consumer confidence. We believe that many members of the public will be looking to enjoy days out, short breaks, eating out and other experiences as lockdown eases, but that confidence in the sector is vital. We hope that the Covid Confident scheme will be a valuable stepping stone for establishments to restore consumer confidence as lockdown eases."

Kurt Jansen, director of the Tourism Alliance, added: "We need to restart the domestic tourism industry in order to protect local jobs and businesses in tourism destinations. This scheme does that by ensuring that every property is safe so that visitors can relax and have a well-earned break in a secure environment."

The scheme, which is open to all hospitality businesses, is free to sign up, although applicants are encouraged to make a donation to Hospitality Action.

Applicants can apply here where they will be asked to supply a risk assessment, evidence that procedures and measures are in place and staff training has taken place, as well as a self-assessment and commitment to a code of conduct.

Photo: Rockliffe Hall