Latest social distancing guidelines to control Covid-19
On 22 September, the Government and medical officials advised that COVID-19 cases are increasing and, as a result, there is updated guidance on social distancing to control the spread of the virus in the UK.
There are also local restriction in place in some parts of the country. You can find out more by visiting Local restrictions: areas with an outbreak of Coronavirus.
Rule of six
The limits on the amount of people you can socialise with in a group have changed. In England, it’s now illegal to meet with more than six friends and family members, who don’t live in your home.
The Police will have the rights to enforce these legal limits and will be issuing fines to those breaching it.
Exemptions to the rule
There are some exemptions to the rule of six.
They include providing support to a vulnerable person or for work reasons. For example, a contractor can go into a household of six to carry out repairs without breaching the rule.
The Government advises that you should also limit how many different people you see socially over a short period of time
You can find out more about the rule of six and who is exempt in the Government’s Coronavirus (COVID-19): Meeting with others safely (social distancing) guidance.
Meeting outside your home
If you need to meet people who don’t live in your home, the Government advises that you meet them outdoors where possible. It’s safer than meeting indoors as the virus spreads less easily outside in the fresh air.
You should continue to keep at least two meters away from anyone you’re meeting outside or one meter with extra precautions in place. Extra precautions include wearing a face covering, meeting in a space that is well ventilated with open doors and windows or moving outside.
Stay up to date with our latest COVID-19 news and updates here.
