Following this week’s announcements on easing the Covid lockdown, Theresa Villiers has issued the following update...
After weeks of patience and hard work by the people of the UK, helping to protect the NHS and contain the virus, the Prime Minister confirmed yesterday that the Government’s five tests in their plan to gradually lift the lockdown are being met. This means we can now move forward to the next phase of adjusting the lockdown.
A series of measures will be put in place in England from Monday 1 June in three core areas – schools, social contact and retail. From Monday 1st June, six people will be able to meet outside under new measures to ease lockdown.
Also on Monday, outdoor markets and car showrooms will be able to reopen, provided they meet Covid-secure guidelines. Schools will also be reopening nurseries and other early years settings for reception, Year 1 and Year 6.
On 15 June, the intention is to reopen other non-essential retail - but only provided the five tests are still being met and shops take steps to ensure social distancing. Secondary schools will also begin to provide some face-to-face contact time for Years 10 and Year 12.
The NHS Test and Trace program has been launched and this will play a vital part in allowing people to get back to work whilst continuing to keep the virus under control.
The Home Secretary has also announced new measures at the UK border to guard against a second wave of coronavirus infections.
Lockdown has massively disrupted people’s lives and if you are struggling, you can find information on support here including on the following issues:
- feeling unsafe
- going in to work
- paying bills
- getting food
- having somewhere to live
- mental health and wellbeing
For more general information please visit the NHS, Gov UK or Barnet Council websites.
Remember to Stay Alert
We must stay alert, to control the virus, and save lives.
To help control the virus, you need to:
- Stay at home as much as possible
- Work from home if you can
- Limit contact with other people
- Keep your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible)
- Wash your hands regularly
- Self-isolate if you or anyone in your household has symptoms.
