What is Changing?
From 24 July:
Face coverings will be required in shops and supermarkets – in addition to public transport where they are already required. People are also strongly encouraged to wear face coverings in other enclosed public spaces where there are people they do not normally meet
From 25 July, subject to rates of transmission closer to the time:
Sports facilities and venues, including such as indoor gyms, fitness and dance studios, indoor swimming pools and indoor water parks, can open
From 1 August, subject to rates of transmission closer to the time:
Employers will have more discretion, in consultation with their employees, on how to ensure people can work safely – working from home is one way to do this, but workplaces can also be made safe by following COVID-19 Secure guidelines
The clinically extremely vulnerable will no longer need to follow advice on shielding, though should still take particular care to follow the social distancing guidelines when meeting people
Bowling alleys, skating rinks and casinos can open as well as indoor performances to a live audience, in line with COVID-19 Secure guidelines. Cambridge Ice Arena will not open before the second week of September.
Small wedding receptions – sit-down meals for no more than 30 people – can take place, subject to COVID-19 Secure guidance
All remaining close contact services – such as facial treatment and make up application – can restart, in line with COVID-secure guidelines
What should I still avoid doing?
It remains the case that you should not:
- Socialise indoors in groups of more than two households (anyone in your support bubble counts as one household) – this includes when dining out or going to the pub
- Socialise outdoors in a group of more than six people from different households; gatherings larger than six should only take place if everyone is from exclusively from two households or support bubbles
- Interact socially with anyone outside the group you are attending a place with, even if you see other people you know, for example, in a restaurant, community centre or place of worship
- Hold or attend celebrations (such as parties) where it is difficult to maintain social distancing, besides small wedding celebrations as outlined above
- Stay overnight away from your home with members of more than one other household (your support bubble counts as one household)
It is against the law for gatherings of more than 30 people to take place in private homes (including gardens and other outdoor spaces) and you should continue to maintain social distancing from those that you do not live with. It is critical that you follow these guidelines to keep both yourself and others safe.