Information concerning lifting of lock down restrictions

Guidelines from the Government concerning the lifting of restrictions following the lockdown are changing daily. For up to date information and a clear FAQ on what can and cannot be done under the new arrangements, in England, please go to the following web site:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do

From tomorrow, 15^th June, non-essential shops can re-open with strict social distancing, hand sanitising and mask (face covering) regulations in place. Also, from tomorrow it’s compulsory to wear a face covering at all times if using public transport. Advice on how to make your own face covering can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering

Anyone who can work from home should continue to do so. If you have to travel to your place of work, please walk or cycle if you are able. If using public transport, please try to travel outside of peak times if possible.

When face coverings on public transport become compulsory on Monday, travel companies will be able to refuse travel for non-compliance and you could also be fined.

The Government has published further guidance on how people can meet other people who live outside their own household, safely, through ‘support bubbles’. The new guidance is available here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/meeting-people-from-outside-your-household

 

What are the face covering rules on public transport?

(From the BBC news site:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51205344)

Anyone travelling by bus, train, ferry or plane in England should wear a face covering from Monday - to help reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission.

The new rules coincide with a further easing of lockdown - including the return to class of some secondary school pupils and the reopening of non-essential shops.

The number of people using public transport is expected to increase.

The government stresses people should:

• Continue home working if possible
• Avoid public transport if they can't work from home
• Avoid the rush hour on public transport

Some passengers will be exempt from the new rules including:

• Children under 11
• People with disabilities
• Those with breathing difficulties
• Anyone travelling with someone who relies on lip reading

If it is "reasonably necessary" for you to eat or drink you can remove the face covering to do so.
The rules will apply only on public transport - not while waiting - but the rail industry will ask people to cover their face as they enter a station.
People could be refused travel if they don't follow the rules. They could also be fined, but this will be the last resort.
Public transport excludes cruise ships, school transport, taxis and private hire vehicles. However, ride-sharing company Uber is making face coverings compulsory.