Issue details

As a result of lockdown, from 24 March 2020 wedding ceremonies ceased to be able to take place.

As part of the review of lockdown and the easing of restriction from the 4 July 2020 the Government announced that wedding ceremonies could take place from 4 July 2020, with some restrictions.

A decision needs to be made about the recommencement weddings in a way that protects the public and staff.

General Registry Office guidance was issued on 29 June 2020 and this has been taken into account.

Financial/staffing/health & safety (incl virus transmission risks)/service delivery impacts/other risks and impacts considered:
Because of the restrictions, many people have chosen to postpone weddings and the numbers booking or rebooking marriage ceremonies are likely to continue to be down with a consequential loss of income.

The need to continue to protect the public attending weddings and key staff (Registrars) to deliver priority services (Birth and death registration).

The need to ensure that the services we provide are done so in accordance with current guidance on social distancing and public health guidance.

The disappointment people will feel in no longer being able to have the numbers of guests that they were expecting to be able to attend a wedding/ceremony.

Equality Impacts - consider separate impact assessment where appropriate:
No direct impacts.