When can we meet in gardens?
THE easing of the coronavirus restrictions has begun with the roadmap underway to raise the country back into some sense of normal life.
The government’s advice to ‘stay at home’ will still be in place, but there is some socialising allowed within the rules.
When can we meet in gardens?
A one-plus-one rule came into effect on March 8.
This means that Brits can meet one other person from a different household for a coffee or a picnic outside.
However, social distancing guidelines must still be followed.
In Scotland the ‘stay at home’ message also remains in place.
However the gov.scot website explains that Scots can still go out to “visit an extended household.”
Wales is still experiencing lockdown - but people can still meet those in their support bubble or childcare bubble.
And Northern Ireland, is also still under the ‘stay at home’ advice.
What will be the rules on garden meetings?
When meeting people from another household social distancing measures are unfortunately still in place.
When you do come into contact with other people, experts advise you to keep two metres - or 6ft - between you and any other people.
It's also advised that you wear a mask and avoid touching - including hugs and kisses.
But hugs for mums, grandparents and friends could be back from MAY as the Government plans to allow the public to decide if they've been jabbed.
Boris Johnson's restrictions roadmap states: "The Government will continually review the evidence of vaccine efficacy, including its impact on transmission.
"As soon as possible, and no later than Step 3, the Government will update its advice on social distancing between friends and family, including hugging.
"Until then, people should continue to keep their distance from anyone not in their household or support bubble, and keep up habits such as regular hand washing and letting in fresh air."
It continues: "It will remain important for people to consider the risks for themselves, taking into account whether they and those they meet have been vaccinated or are at greater risk."
This means that someone who has been vaccinated might make the decision that they are comfortable hugging a pal who has also already been jabbed.
What other rules will be relaxed in phase two?
As part of the government’s roadmap to ease lockdown restrictions, care home residents will be allowed one indoor visitor from March 8.
As part of a cautious easing of lockdown, visitors will be required to take a lateral flow test before entry and wear PPE.
The scheme will allow a single visitor to hold hands with their relative/friend in the care home and make repeat visits.
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The lockdown roadmap includes:
- Schools to return from March 8 for all pupils, and two people from different households can meet outside
- But kids will have to wear masks in classrooms at first
- From March 29 the rule of six returns outdoors and outdoor sport will resume with golf and tennis courts back open
- April 12 will see shops reopen for customers again, with hairdressers and barbers back - along with nail salons
- Brits will be able to go on a staycation with their family as the stay local rules will be lifted from the end of April
- From May, pubs and restaurants will be allowed to have indoor service again - with the rule of six or two households in place
- Gyms will then be allowed to reopen and other indoor activities like cinemas and bingo halls
- From May two households will finally be able to mix indoors - and stay overnight
- After June it's hoped that all other restrictions on where people can go are hoped to be lifted
- Nightclubs and theatres can finally reopen - likely with rapid testing schemes