Pilot events programme gets off to successful start

Only 15 people out of 58,000 tested positive for Covid-19 after attending the Government’s Events Research Programme (ERP) pilot events, according to a report in the Daily Telegraph.

Several events have taken place over the last month, including The BRIT Awards, Festival Republic’s 5,000 capacity concert in Liverpool, several football matches and two nightclub events.

Both indoor and outdoor event settings were tested and no-one who attended had to wear face coverings or practice social distancing. The only requirement was the need for a Covid test both before and afterwards.

The current roadmap in England allows events to now run indoors up to a maximum of 1,000 people (or 50% capacity), but masks and social distancing remain mandatory. From 21st June, a full lifting of restrictions is planned, but it is not yet known whether or not some manner of Covid-status certification will be required. If mandated, it would require eventgoers to provide proof of a negative test, proof of vaccination, or proof of natural antibodies.

Commenting on the results, Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill said, “The early release of the initial results from the Events Research Programme have shown that these environments are no different than retail and supermarkets, which are currently open and are able to trade.

“The Government needs to have confidence in the sector’s ability to deliver safe events, and continue to stand strong with the roadmap and ensure we are open on the 21 June without fail, ending the suffering of some of the hardest hit industries across the UK.

“Opening the doors of these businesses is the only way that we are going to be able to save these industries and safeguard the amazing people that work within them.”