New Lockdown Rules

Following on from yesterday’s quick video, I thought it would be helpful to summarise the new rules for the second lockdown across England, and link through to the guidance that has been issued.

The New Rules

Assuming it is passed by Parliament in the meantime, the second Lockdown in England starts on Thursday 5th November and will run until the 2nd December 2020.

It may be extended beyond the period if the ‘R Number’ does not reduce.

You must stay home unless:

• You need to travel for work, and cannot work from home.
• You need to leave home for education purposes.
• It’s for your own safety, for example to escape domestic abuse.
• You are exercising outdoors, which you can do as often as you wish.
• You need to shop for essential food or medicines, which you should do as infrequently as possible.
• To provide care for vulnerable people or to volunteer.

Who must close?

• All non-essential retail, other than for delivery to customers or click and collect.
• Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities. Playgrounds can remain open.
• Entertainment venues.
• Personal care facilities.

Who can stay open?

• Retailers providing essential goods and services can remain open, which includes food shops, supermarkets, garden centres.
• Hospitality venues, such as bars and restaurants must close, but can provide takeaway and delivery services.
• Hotels and similar businesses can stay open for those who have to travel for work purposes. More guidance will follow.
• Medical services such as GP surgeries, some dental practices and similar services can remain open with COVID secure procedures and the right PPE.
• Courts / Civil Registrations Offices
• Schools, colleges and universities will remain open as long as is possible.

The latest COVID-secure guidelines for workplaces in England are here. (Links to the devolved constituencies are on the top of the linked page.)

You can find the latest guidance on the restrictions here.