To reduce the risk of catching or spreading coronavirus, try to keep at least 2 metres away from people you do not live with. Social distancing is essential to stop the spread of the virus, as it is more likely to spread when people are close together. An infected person can pass on the virus even if they do not have any symptoms, through talking, breathing, coughing or sneezing.
When with people you do not live with, you should also avoid: physical contact; being close and face-to-face; and shouting or singing close to them. You should also avoid crowded areas with lots of people; and touching things that other people have touched.
Where you cannot stay 2 metres apart you should stay more than 1 metre apart, as well as taking extra steps to stay safe. For example:
on public transport and in many indoor spaces, you must wear a face covering by law, unless you are exempt; move outdoors, where it is safer and there is more space. If indoors, make sure rooms are well ventilated by keeping windows and doors open
It may not always be possible or practicable to maintain social distancing when providing care to a young child, or person with a disability or health condition. You should still limit close contact as much as possible when providing these types of care, and take other precautions such as washing hands and opening windows for ventilation.
Seeing Friends and Family
When seeing friends and family you do not live with you should meet in groups of 6 or less. This limit of 6 includes children of any age. The police will have the powers to enforce these legal limits, including to issue fines (fixed penalty notices) of £200, doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £6,400.
You should also follow social distancing rules when you meet up and limit how many different people you see socially over a short period of time.