Changes STILL going ahead on June 21 despite lockdown delay

The next stage in the easing of coronavirus restrictions in England has been delayed by up to four weeks amid concerns over the spread of the Delta variant.

It means the move to Step 4 on the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, when it had hoped to be in a position to remove all legal limits on social contact, will not go ahead from June 21.

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The announcement means a continuation of existing restrictions such as the rule of six, or two households, for gatherings indoors as well as limits on numbers for sports events, pubs and cinemas until July 19.

However, the extension will be reviewed to see if the country can open up completely a fortnight earlier on July 5.

Nightclubs will stay closed and people will be encouraged to keep up social distancing and working from home.

However, although a number of restrictions remain in place - some industries will be allowed to  open up a little more on June 21.

Weddings and wakes

The 30-person cap for wedding ceremonies and receptions, as well as wakes, will be lifted – with limits to be set by venues based on social distancing requirements.

The number of attendees is to be determined by how many people a venue can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place.

Venue staff, bands, photographers and anyone else involved in the wedding must be included in the headcount, as well as guests of all ages.

However, food and drink must be ordered, served and consumed by guests seated at a table, and dancing indoors is still not permitted, except for the couple’s first dance.

Care homes

Residents in England will be able to leave their home for more visits without needing to self-isolate for 14 days on their return.

This includes overnight stays with family and friends from next Monday.

How will the delay of lockdown affect you? Let us know in the comments.