Covid Marshals patrol the streets in Weymouth
They're there to provide a 'frontline' presence.
Covid Marshals have been sent out to patrol the streets in Weymouth.
Dorset Council say their aim is to help keep residents and businesses safe during the pandemic and the current lockdown.
The marshals come from Dorset-based company Event Security Southern LTD and are being paid for by the government.
Dorset Council say the Marshals will help provide an effective 'frontline' presence that the Council hopes will increase public confidence when visiting Dorset's high streets and town centres.
Last Thursday night (5 November), these Marshals were out in Weymouth's harbourside and beachfront areas, as these have been reported as potential hotspots for congregation.
While the police and select council officers will continue to have enforcement powers, COVID Marshals have been tasked with engaging, explaining and encouraging best practice and national COVID-19 secure guidance.
The marshals will promote social distancing and encourage people to follow COVID-19 public health measures, while educating and explaining guidelines to businesses and the general public.
They will work with local businesses on measures like queue management, advising on one-way systems and social distancing in queues.
The marshals will also remind people to wear face-coverings where required and encourage social distancing in busy areas.
They can also help prevent mixing between groups in night-time economy areas, raising any issues to local authority compliance and enforcement officers if guidelines are not being followed.
While the Marshals are currently active in Weymouth, their operating area is flexible and Dorset Council can deploy them anywhere in the county where it is felt they are needed.
They will continue to be active over the next few months.
Cllr. Jill Haynes, Dorset Council's Portfolio Holder for Customer Services and Communities, said:
"Keeping up with the latest COVID-19 secure guidance can be challenging, and it's important that we provide support in as many ways as possible. The Marshals will provide a visible presence on the ground in our town centres and high streets that demonstrates one of the approaches we're taking to make sure our businesses and residents keep safe while the pandemic continues.
Whether it's warning people not to congregate or providing advice and guidance to businesses as they operate, these Marshals have a vital role to play in bolstering public confidence and supporting our local economy."