GGF issues warning over Covid misinformation
19th May 2020

The GGF is in consultation with the Government over what both agree is inaccurate, incorrect and opinion-based misinformation circulating in the industry about working practices during the Covid pandemic.

MD John Agnew said in a statement issued today: “It is unacceptable for anyone to be acting in this way at a time when our industry needs accurate, correct and verified information. In these difficult times, I would advise all companies to follow the GGF and Government Guidance available, and to avoid the misinformation that is out there.

This misinformation and misleading opinion appear to be designed to divide our industry at a time when, more than ever, we need to be united and rebuild following the devastating impact of Covid-19.

“As always, the GGF will continue to liaise with Government and work with Members and industry experts, to ensure the best possible information and guidance is made available to help companies and consumers cope through this extraordinary period.”

He added that, in contrast to the misinformation: “ In the last week the GGF has launched a “first to market” Safe Guide for Homeowners, followed by the launch of the GGF’s new Safe Guide for Home Improvement Companies, which offers comprehensive, accurate and up to date information for installers to work safely in people’s homes.

The organisations cites several examples of such misinformation, quoted as government updates, including: “The government believes that tradespeople are more likely to maintain safe distancing and practises than people meeting up with their family (hence differences in restrictions)” and:  “It is understood that the infection rate will increase”
These have now been dismissed by the BEIS as matters of opinion not originating from the government.

James Lee, GGF Director of External Affairs added: “The GGF policy has always been to deliver high quality information that can be trusted by both trade and consumers and both guides are to the expected GGF standard.”

Both new publications have been produced in collaboration with a diverse cross section of Industry experts, GGF Members, GGF Staff and Government officials.

Both GGF Safe Guides are for all companies in the industry to use and are available for free download and viewing on the GGF website www.ggf.org.uk