Scots 'uncomfortable' returning to pubs and restaurants

People across Scotland are still uncomfortable about returning to pubs and restaurants as lockdown eases, according to a new survey.

The Survation poll for the charity Advice Direct Scotland asked Scots how comfortable they felt about doing some regular activities in the same way before the coronavirus pandemic began.

More than 1000 people responded with 66% saying they did not feel comfortable going to bars and restaurants again when permitted to do so – 32% did feel comfortable.

Just over two-thirds (67%) said they were not comfortable using public transport after lockdown with 29% comfortable – but 63% were okay going to their place of work compared to 34% not doing so.

When it came to non-essential shopping, with shops due to open from June 29, more people were comfortable (54%) than not (44%).

Elsewhere, 50% said they would be comfortable holidaying in the UK and 47% would not be comfortable – but just 28% would be comfortable holidaying abroad compared to 67% not comfortable.

Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: “These findings show that many Scots are uncomfortable about elements of lockdown easing, particularly using public transport and returning to pubs and restaurants.

“The Scottish Government advice is very clear and people should follow the guidelines to ensure they stay safe, including wearing face coverings on public transport.

“But it remains a deeply uncertain and worrying time for both consumers and businesses, and our coronavirusadvice.scot service is constantly being updated to provide free, impartial and practical advice.”