Roadmap out of lockdown – Step 2
Effective from 12 April
Step 2 of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown will begin on Monday 12 April as planned. Click here to read the Government’s announcement confirming these changes.
This is the most significant easing of restrictions so far.
Please note: despite these changes, you should continue to work from home where you can and continue to minimise the amount you travel where possible.
What is changing on 12 April?
- non-essential retail will be able to reopen
- personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons will be able to reopen
- public buildings such as libraries and community centres will be able to reopen
- outdoor hospitality venues will be able to reopen, with table service only
- most outdoor attractions including zoos, theme parks, and drive-in performances (such as cinemas and concerts) will be able to reopen
- some smaller outdoor events such as fetes, literary fairs, and fairgrounds will be able to take place
- indoor leisure and sports facilities will be able to reopen for individual exercise, or exercise with your household or support bubble
- all childcare and supervised activities will be 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 will be able to 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 will be able to open for overnight stays in England with your household or support bubble
- you should continue to minimise the amount that you travel where possible
- care home residents will be able to nominate two named individuals for regular indoor visits (following a rapid lateral flow test)
How to keep yourself and others safe
Despite the further easing of restrictions, Covid-19 continues to be a significant part of our lives and we must proceed with caution.
It remains vital that we follow the rules and practice safe behaviours throughout.
Here are some key points to remember as restrictions ease:
- You should continue to minimise the amount that you travel where possible
- 2 households or a group of 6 can meet outdoors. You must not mix with others indoors, unless they are part of your household / support bubble.
- Indoor settings must only be visited alone or with household groups and outdoor settings are limited to either six people or two households
- Keep your distance from those you don’t live with (unless they are part of your support bubble)
- Practice regular hand washing
- Wear a face covering when visiting indoor public places (unless exempt)
- Let fresh air in
- Watch out for symptoms and get tested when needed
- Get vaccinated when offered
Let’s take this next step safely.
