As part of the government's plan to gradually ease lockdown restrictions, there are a number of measures being relaxed from the start of next week throughout the country.
Social contact
The evidence shows that it is safer for people to meet outdoors rather than indoors.
And this is why from 29 March, when most schools start to break up for the Easter holidays, outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either 6 people (the Rule of 6) or 2 households will also be allowed, making it easier for friends and families to meet outside.
Those meeting with friends and families from different households are still advised to avoid contact where possible and adhere to the current social distancing measures.
Business and activities
Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, and open-air swimming pools, will also be allowed to reopen, and people will be able to take part in formally organised outdoor sports.
Sporting activities will be able to include up to 15 people, excluding those under the age of five.
Travel
The ‘stay at home’ rule will end on 29 March but many restrictions will remain in place. People should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.
Travel abroad will continue to be prohibited, other than for a small number of permitted reasons. Holidays abroad will not be allowed, given it will remain important to manage the risk of imported variants and protect the vaccination programme.
Members of the public are still discouraged from booking any domestic holidays at this time.
