All the things you can and can’t do as lockdown eases from May 17

Many of us have had May 17 circled in the diary as the moment we’ll get to enjoy some more freedoms again after months of lockdown.

People in England will finally be able to mix indoors again in two households which aren’t a bubble, while advice now allows hugs without strict social distancing.

Meanwhile, pubs and restaurants will be able to serve groups of up to six people indoors, so customers won’t be stuck nursing a pint in the rain anymore.

However, the prime minister has urged a ‘heavy dose of caution’ as the restrictions ease.

This unlocking is part of Boris Johnson’s ‘roadmap’ that he set out in February this year.

It is the penultimate stage before a final unlocking on June 21 which was meant to see all limits on social contact lifted – but could now be in doubt because of an infectious new variant of coronavirus now circulating in the UK, which was first identified in India.

In a statement, Mr Johnson said: ‘Together we have reached another milestone in our roadmap out of lockdown, but we must take this next step with a heavy dose of caution.

‘We are keeping the spread of the variant first identified in India under close observation and taking swift action where infection rates are rising.’

He said the ‘current data does not indicate unsustainable pressure on the NHS’, and that second vaccine doses are being accelerated to give the greatest protection to the most vulnerable.

‘But now everyone must play their part – by getting tested twice a week, coming forward for your vaccine when called and remembering hands, face, space and fresh air.’

So for now, there will be a loosening of restrictions. Here’s what is changing.

Limits on gatherings

People will be allowed to meet outdoors in groups of up to 30 people, instead of the current limit of six.

They will also be allowed to meet indoors now, if in a group of six or less, or if they constitute two households (each household can include a support bubble, if eligible).

Social distancing

New guidance will emphasise ‘personal responsibility’ rather than government rules.

Previously, people had been told to stay two metres apart from anyone they don’t live with.

Indoor entertainment

Cinemas, theatres, concert halls, bowling alleys, casinos, amusement arcades, museums and children’s indoor play areas will be permitted to open with COVID-secure measures in place.

There will be caps on numbers according to the type of venue, so check beforehand.

However, nightclubs will remain closed in this stage of the easing.

Pubs and restaurants

Indoor hospitality venues can reopen to serve customers indoors, rather than just on outside tables.

Some pubs are planning on opening at midnight to celebrate being able to get back a bit of normality.

However, the limits on indoor gatherings described above still apply, so you won’t be able to meet your friends in groups of more than six inside.

Foreign holidays

Foreign travel will be allowed again from tomorrow, with a traffic light system in place to categorise different countries.

People can travel to and from ‘green list’ countries such as Portugal without the need to quarantine on their return.

However, many countries are on the ‘red list’ which mean holidays are banned, and UK nationals must quarantine in a government-approved hotel if they return from there.

Holidays in England

All holiday accommodation can reopen, including hotels and B&Bs.

This can be used by groups of up to six or two households (each household can include a support bubble, if eligible).

Organised indoor sport

This will be able to take place, including gym classes.

The sport must be organised by a business, charity or public body and the organiser must take reasonable measures to reduce the risk of transmission.

Funerals

Attendance will no longer be limited to 30 people, but will be determined by how many people the COVID-secure venue can safely accommodate with social distancing.

Weddings

The number of people allowed at weddings will be increased to 30 people. Other significant life events, such as bar/bat mitzvahs and christenings, will also be able to take place with 30 people.

However, the rules for receptions still state that dancing is ‘advised against’ with dance floors to remain closed apart from the couple’s first dance.

The guidance has been relaxed, however, to remove the rule for people to stay two metres apart away from anyone they do not live with.

Care homes

The rules for care home residents visiting and receiving visitors will change, allowing up to five named visitors (two at any one time), provided they test negative for COVID-19.

Parent and child groups

The limit on numbers will increase to 30 people (not including under 5s).

This will also apply to other forms of support group.

For the full government guidance, click here.

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