Social distancing

From Monday 12 April, changes to lockdown restrictions as part of step 2 of the Governments roadmap out of lockdown will be introduced.

Retail and Leisure

Non-essential retail; personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons; and public buildings, including libraries and community centres will be able to reopen.

In addition, indoor leisure facilities such as gyms will also reopen (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups); as will most outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues, zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas.

Self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis/basketball courts and open-air swimming pools as well as formally organised outdoor sports open at the end of March.

Hospitality

Hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’).

Wider social contact rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households.

Events

While funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners, the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15.

Social contact

Outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either six people (the 'rule of six'), or two households will be allowed. This will make it easier for friends and families to meet outside only.

Travel

The 'stay at home' rule will end. However, many restrictions will remain in place. People should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make, where possible. Avoid travel at the busiest times and via the busiest routes.

Travel abroad will continue to be prohibited, other than for a small number of permitted reasons. Holidays abroad will not be allowed; it will remain important to manage the risk of imported variants and protect the vaccination programme.

 

Read more information about the government's roadmap out of lockdown and the Step 3 changes that will be introduced on 17 May

Remember 'Hands. Face. Space.'

When people leave home, it is crucial that they stick to the guidelines that will help limit the spread of Covid-19.

1. Hands. Wash your hands regularly and for at least 20 seconds
2. Face. Wear a face covering in indoor settings, where social distancing may be difficult. You should also wear them when you come into contact with people you do not normally meet
3. Space. Stay two metres apart from people you do not live with, where possible - or one metre away when extra precautions are in place (such as face coverings)

 

Read the Government guidance on social distancing and stopping the spread of Covid-19

Downloadable posters

We have created a series of downloadable posters with guidance and reminders to help maintain social distancing:

Babergh District posters

• National lockdown - facilities closed
• Keep your distance - 2 metres
• Keep your distance
• Play area guidelines

Mid Suffolk District posters

• National lockdown - facilities closed
• Keep your distance - 2 metres
• Keep your distance
• Play area guidelines 

General posters

• Visitors: social distancing reminder
• Face covering: social distancing reminder
• Working safely to welcome customers

Questions?

If you have any queries about social distancing at your business please call 0300 1234000 and select option 7 or email the Social Distancing team.