Returning to Work - Free COVID-19 Course for Therapists

The massage industry was dealt a further blow when it was revealed that massage therapists would not be allowed to return to work on the 4th July. However, as the economy continues to take positive steps towards moving forwards from COVID-19, the end is hopefully in sight. Whilst we hold out for a firm reopening date from the UK government, massage therapists can take proactive steps now to ensure that they are fully prepared and ready to return in the safest way possible at the appropriate time.  

We were delighted to hear that our affiliate school Gateway Workshops is running a free course for therapists called ‘COVID-19 Health, Safety and Hygiene: Returning to Work’. This course includes a Certificate of completion, which can be printed and displayed in the salon and will give clients the reassurance that you are completely up to date with all the required health & safety requirements needed to help keep them safe whilst on your premises.

This course has been accredited by the FHT (Federation of Holistic Therapists) and has also been awarded 3 CPD points. The team at Gateway Workshops are keen for this free course to reach as many beauty and massage therapists as possible as a way of helping the industry to get back on their feet in the safest way possible. You can sign up for the course here. 

Just as a reminder, this course is for the UK industry only as it makes direct reference to UK authorities such as the NHS, the UK government and the HSE. It is also worth noting that the course is based on all of the available information and guidance provided by the UK government and the HSE at the time of publication. The course organisers cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes which take place after this date that could affect the course contents. 

Please also be aware that there are some policy variations in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, as well as the introduction of new localised ‘lockdowns’ as and when coronavirus outbreaks are identified. It is therefore vital that you check with the appropriate authorities in your area with regards to permission to trade. 

In addition to this certification, it goes without saying that you should be taking steps now to ensure you are fully stocked with the necessary PPE prior to opening. Our pack of 50 disposable face masks is the ideal bulk buy and provides effective protection against the spread of viruses and bacteria within the salon environment. The three-layer design provides good close contact for mouth and nose, with comfortable ear elastic to stay in place for the duration of the treatment. 

Remember that your insurance company will not cover you for treatments until the UK government has given the clear instruction to reopen, so whilst we do not yet know when you’ll be able to start treating your clients again, it is certainly worth making sure you are fully prepared in advance for when we do finally get the green light.