In the past few months checking in before entering a pub or restaurant had become second nature.

Scanning a venue's QR code with the NHS Covid-19 app was one of the measures in place to identify contacts of coronavirus cases and, if necessary, ask them to self-isolate.

But now lockdown has been fully lifted, is the QR code still a legal requirement?

Although all main restrictions no longer apply, the virus is still among us so there is confusion as to whether we're still expected to check in when visiting pubs, restaurants and bars.

'No longer a legal requirement'

Wiltshire Council's director of public health explained earlier this week that businesses are no longer legally required to ask customers to check in.

However, they should still display the QR code for those who choose to scan it.

Speaking during a Covid-19 briefing on Tuesday July 27, Kate Blackburn said: "Businesses are no longer required legally to collect customers' contact details or to keep a record of their staff and visitors, however, they are advised to continue to display the NHS QR code for customers who wish to check in using the app.

"That does really help to reduce the spread of the virus and protect customers and staff."

Crucially though, businesses should not be asking customers to check in or turn away those who refuse to do it, Mrs Blackburn said.

Whether or not to scan the code is a personal choice.

QR code alternative

According to Mrs Blackburn, venues displaying the NHS QR code should also be able to collect and store the names and contact details of customers without a smartphone or the Covid-19 app.

Thousands of people reportedly deleted the app in recent weeks following a steep rise in the number of people asked to self-isolate.

Half a million people were affected by the so-called 'pingdemic' as a result of cases rising.

Businesses in Wiltshire are being encouraged to be supportive of staff who need to self-isolate "until it's very clear from the Government who doesn't need to".

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