Scotland has dropped the use of COVID-19 vaccine passes from today (Monday), meaning visitors and attendees to certain venues will no longer have to prove their vaccination status.
The vaccine passport scheme had been in place since October 1 last year, as the Omicron variant swept across the UK.
Patrons had to prove they were fully vaccinated against coronavirus in order to enter venues such as nightclubs, unseated indoor live events with more than 4,000 people, unseated outdoor live events with more than 4,000 attendees and any event with a capacity of more than 10,000 people.
This applied to events such as football matches, concerts and festivals.
Now, visitors will no longer have to provide proof of vaccination in the country, with the Scottish Government releasing guidelines for cultural performances and events.
Face coverings are still required indoors in venues such as cinemas, dance halls, museums, galleries, theatres, comedy clubs and concert halls.
Businesses and event organisers still have the choice to ask for proof of vaccination, but it is on a voluntary basis.
England has dropped all coronavirus restrictions, including the need to self isolate.
This prompted a mixed reaction from the industry, including from Music Venue Trust chief executive Mark Davyd, who said that it could have a negative impact on the immunosuppressed attending events and concerts.
Some, including CEO of the Association of Independent Festivals Paul Reed, said that the Government needed to go one step further to help businesses.
Reed said: “While we welcome legal restrictions around COVID-19 coming to an end and the prospect of a full capacity festival season, the effects of the pandemic are still being felt by the independent festival sector and the need for Government action remains.”
Image: Felix Mooneeram on Unsplash
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