Lockdown: Light at the end of the tunnel

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Lockdown: Light at the end of the tunnel Posted On 24 June 2020

Yesterday, the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, in a statement to the House confirmed that lockdown measures will be further reduced from the 4^th of July onwards…

The government released plans to return life to normal for as many people as possible, in a way that is safe and continues to protect the NHS. The new rules won’t come into place until the 4^th of July and the guidelines are available here – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do

So, for those who missed it, here is a breakdown of the changes that are coming in ten days:

Social Distancing

The government has introduced a new ‘1-metre-plus’ rule. Where possible the government advises to try to keep 2m apart, but if that is not possible, the guidance has been changed to 1m.

Households

From the 4^th of July, one household of up to 6 people is allowed to spend time with another household indoors. This new guidance will allow the other household to stay the night, although it is still advised to stay physically distant.

Pub & Restaurants

The biggest news in his statement was the reopening of pubs and restaurants both indoors and outdoors. The ‘COVID-secure way’ of reopening will introduce measures such as table service, more hand-washing and extra ventilation. It has also been said that bars and restaurants may take customers names to help with the Track and Trace system.

Hotels & B&Bs

Hotels, holiday homes, campsites, caravan parks and bed and breakfasts will be able to reopen. There will be guidance in place for campsites in regards to being ‘COVID-secure’ in shared facility areas.

Theatres, cinemas, galleries and museum

Museums, theatres, cinemas and art galleries will be allowed to reopen, however, not for live performances. Restaurants, cafes and bars inside will be allowed to reopen too.

Health & Beauty

Unfortunately, indoor gyms and leisure centres won’t be opening on the 4^th of July, however, hairdressers and barbers will be allowed to reopen. Nail bars and tattoo parlours won’t be allowed to reopen just yet, however, will hopefully open a few weeks down the line.

Entertainment

Theme parks, funfairs, amusement arcades, aquariums, zoos, safari parks and wildlife centres will be allowed to reopen, which will be great news for families for days out. Indoor soft play, indoor skating and bowling alleys won’t be able to reopen as yet.

Guidance over Legislation

One interesting statement from Boris Johnson in the speech was the change of tone from the government. The PM said, “From now on we will ask people to follow guidance on social contact instead of legislation.” This means that he has put social contact in our own hands trusting our use of common sense.

With this welcome news, it is now up to all of us to follow our common sense to ensure all the good work and sacrifices over the past few months hasn’t been for nothing…