The recent relaxation of restrictions has brought joy to millions of us. We could meet loved ones indoors, hug, organize parties, visit restaurants, and book tickets to our favorite activities.
But caution is still the top priority. This is what we can do in England and how we can do it safely.
What can we do?
Groups of six or two households can now meet indoors. This is the first time since 2020 that people from other households have been allowed to meet indoors, and the first time that individuals have been allowed to be in close contact with family and friends, including hugs.
Organized indoor group sports and exercise classes for adults can be resumed.
Can i have a party
Larger gatherings of up to 30 people for celebrations such as baptisms and weddings outdoors and COVID-safe indoor spaces are allowed.
Where was the reopening and which events were reopened?
Indoor seating in restaurants, cinemas, bowling alleys, arcades, indoor play areas, art galleries and museums have reopened. Hotels, hostels and B&B accommodation are permitted for groups of up to six people or two households.
Major events such as conferences, theater, concert performances and sporting events were resumed within capacity.
Indoor events: Up to 1,000 attendees or 50 percent of the capacity of a venue, whichever is lower.
Outdoor events: Up to 4,000 attendees, or 50 percent of the capacity of a venue, whichever is lower.
Large outdoor seating events: Up to 10,000 attendees, or 25 percent of the capacity of a venue, whichever is lower.
Pubs and hugs are back – but be careful.
What are the rules for nursing homes?
Nursing home residents can have up to five regular visitors, with up to two visitors at a time or on a single day, in addition to their care recipient. Residents who leave home for a low risk visit will no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return.
What other security measures should we follow?
Caution is the catchphrase. Think of your hands, face, space, fresh air. Wash your hands, wear face covering, and keep a distance of two meters in public spaces. Always let in some fresh air.
For more information on how to protect against the latest rules, see gov.uk/coronavirus
CASE STUDY
Matthew and Ellie
ELLIE TURNBULL, 27, RILLINGTON,
NORTH YORKSHIRE
It’s the third time Ellie and Matthew have celebrated their wedding in style.
The North Yorkshire couple have three-year-old daughter Lola, while 27-year-old Ellie is expecting her second child in June.
She and Matthew, 28, have been together for eight years. They got engaged three years ago and immediately saved up for their big day.
“We know weddings are expensive and we wanted to save enough money to have everything we wanted … the day we dreamed of,” Ellie said.
The couple was due to get married in May 2020 at the Hackness Grange Hotel, but had to cancel due to lockdown restrictions.
The ceremony was rearranged for October 2020, but due to restrictions, guests were limited to 15 people. Instead of postponing it again, the ceremony just continued.
“It was devastating,” said Ellie.
“Many of our family members were not allowed to come. It was hard to decide who should be there, but it had to be. ”
The disappointment has now turned into joy and excitement about Ellie and Matthew’s big day, including another ceremony scheduled for October in the same location.
Tie the Knot – Matthew and Ellie with their 15 Hackness Grange guests. (All photos: M&G wedding photography)
Planned after phase 4 of the roadmap on June 21, they want to invite 100 day guests, along with 60 others, to an evening party.
“It’s going to be the most exciting day now, absolutely fantastic, really brilliant,” added Ellie.
