It is with great sadness that we write to you following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.
The government has just released National Mourning Guidance, which we wanted to draw to your attention. The guidance sets out information on aspects of the National Mourning period such as floral tributes and social media advice. It outlines that it is at the discretion of businesses whether to consider closing or postponing events – especially on the day of the State Funeral – depending on their nature and tone.
In keeping with this, government business and the delivery of public services will continue, albeit without public announcements, visits, speaking engagements or media appearances at this time.
BEIS have asked us to pass on some considerations you may wish to make with regard to your own business or those of your members, including:
- providing an opportunity for your staff to offer their condolences, either by providing your own book of condolence or by directing them to the online book of condolence at the Royal website;
- identifying arrangements made by Local Authorities to lay floral or memorial tributes;
- signposting staff on how to donate to one of The Queen’s patronages, with information available on the Royal website;
- identifying whether your business location is likely to be impacted by arrangements made by Local Authorities, or events planned in central London, and planning your response;
- considering any changes you might wish to make to your website and social media activities; and
- where you have flags, lowering them to half mast.
The best source of information is www.gov.uk. Your Local Authority will also be updating their own websites on local arrangements, including any events they may organise which might impact on the locality of your business or local travel.
The Royal Household will set out arrangements on Lying-in-State and the State Funeral. Businesses are encouraged to follow updates on www.gov.uk and the Royal Website.
Relevant organisations in copy are free to distribute this message to your members as you see fit.