Monday 12th April saw select restrictions in England lifted, with more set to be lifted over the coming months if Covid-19 statistics remain under control. The lifted restrictions have allowed many of us to see loved ones outdoors, who we may have not seen in a long time face-to-face.
Although many restrictions remain in place for now, these restrictions pose as our first steps to easing lockdown and coming together once again.
For now, you must not socialise indoors with anyone you do not live with, unless you have formed a support bubble with them. You should continue to work from home if you can and minimise the number of journeys you make where possible. Following guidance will allow restrictions to be eased as planned.
So, what has changed as of April 12th?
Non-essential retail can reopen.
Personal care services such as hairdressers and nail salons can reopen, including those provided from a mobile setting.
Public buildings such as libraries and community centres can reopen.
Outdoor hospitality venues can reopen, with table service only.
Most outdoor attractions including zoos, theme parks, and drive-in performances (such as cinemas and concerts) can reopen.
Some smaller outdoor events such as fetes, literary fairs, and fairgrounds can take place.
Indoor leisure and sports facilities can reopen for individual exercise, or exercise with your household or support bubble.
All childcare and supervised activities are allowed indoors (as well as outdoors) for all children. Parent and child groups can take place indoors (as well as outdoors) for up to 15 people (children under 5 will not be counted in this number).
Weddings, civil partnership ceremonies, wakes and other commemorative events can take place for up to 15 people (anyone working is not included in this limit), including in indoor venues that are permitted to open or where an exemption applies. Wedding receptions can also take place for up to 15 people, but must take place outdoors, not including private gardens.
Self-contained accommodation can stay open for overnight stays in England with your household or support bubble.
Care home residents will be able to nominate two named individuals for regular indoor visits (following a rapid lateral flow test).
You should continue to work from home if you can and minimise the amount that you travel where possible.
Vaccinations are being rolled out throughout the UK, which is proving to be successful in protecting the vulnerable and the NHS from being overwhelmed. Despite these restrictions being lifted, guidance of face coverings and social distancing is still in place to keep us all safe.
Let’s stand together to protect each other and the NHS.
If you are unsure on current Covid-19 restrictions in place, visit (COVID-19) Coronavirus restrictions: what you can and cannot do - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)