May 17th - Excitement and Trepidation all in One

The roadmap towards a full easing of Lockdown is underpinned by four key tests that are linked to data, which act like a checklist that must be met before moving on to the next step of reopening.

The tests determine whether the vaccine rollout is going as planned; vaccines are effective in bringing down deaths and hospitalisations; case numbers are not rising so fast that the NHS risks being overwhelmed; and new variants do not create unforeseen risks.

The Prime Minister confirmed  on Friday that clusters of the Indian variant were evident in Bolton, Blackburn and Darwen, regions which have invited all adults aged 18 and over to receive the vaccine from May 17 in a bid to curb the spread. And although Covid cases and hospitalisations have continued to fall across the UK, the Indian variant poses a concern as it has spread three times faster than other imported strains. Public Health England figures show that the strain is now dominant in several Covid-19 hotspots in the North West of England.
But, England will move on to the next phase of easing Lockdown Rules:-

• Up to six people, or two households of any size, may meet indoors. Overnight stays allowed

• Up to 30 people may meet outdoors

• Pubs, bars and restaurants can open indoors

• Indoor entertainment (such as museums and cinemas) can resume

• Outdoor events allowed up to the lower of 4,000 attendees or 50 per cent capacity

• Social distancing and close physical contact with friends and family a matter of personal judgment

• No limit to attendees at funerals

• Up to 30 people can attend weddings and other life events

• Care home residents are allowed up to five named visitors

• Hotels, B&Bs, sport and gym classes may reopen

• Overseas holidays permitted to "green list" countries

• No face coverings required in secondary school classrooms

• In-person teaching permitted at universities

The Health Secretary has also confirmed that people who have had both Covid vaccinations will be able to use the NHS app to "prove" their status in order to travel to other countries from May 17. 

Those who do not have access to a smartphone can call the NHS Helpline 119 to gain a vaccine confirmation letter so they can travel to one of the "green" list destinations. 

"The certification, being able to show that you've had a jab, is going to be necessary for people to be able to travel." Mr Hancock said.

It is important to ensure that Covid Protocols and Covid Risk Assessments are kept up to date as these Government changes are implemented.

The Health & Safety Executive have put together practical and efficient guidance for employers.