Coronavirus: Rule of six exemptions
From school and work to playgrounds and exercise classes - we've got the full list of exemptions from the government's new rule.
Last updated 23rd May 2022
Boris Johnson has made major changes to what was allowed in England, making gatherings of more than six people illegal, but there are some exemptions.
He announced on Wednesday that new rules will come into force in England from next Monday (September 14) after a rise in coronavirus infections.
So what is allowed under the new rules and what are the exemptions to the 'rule of six'? We've gathered together all the details since published by the government:
Families and households bigger than six people
If everyone lives together the rule of six doesn't apply.
So if you have a big family, or your household is of more than six people - that's allowed.
The rule will apply to other people visiting you though as it's to stop people being in the same place at the same time.
That means you won't be able to have friends round if you already have six or more people in your house.
Support bubbles
As the Prime Minister outlined yesterday support bubbles count as one household and can therefore be a group bigger than six.
There are a few rules though, you should only be in one support bubble and one of the two households in the bubble should only have one adult.
Divorced and separated parents
Existing arrangements for childcare where children do not live in the same household as both their parents can carry on.
That means children can travel between divorced or separated parents.
Schools and playgroups
The rule of six does not apply for any form of education, training, registered childcare, or providers offering before or after-school clubs for children
There is also an exemption for children’s playgroups and youth groups, although these will have to be done in a COVID-secure manner.
Work
You will still be able to go to work.
The exemption is for 'work, and voluntary or charitable services'.
Weddings and Funerals
Wedding and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions can carry on with up to 30 people attending.
Other 'religious life-cycle ceremonies' can also go ahead.
The same is true for funerals - where up to 30 people will be able to attend.
Exercise classes and sport
You will be able to go to your exercise class, as long as it's socially distanced.
Organised indoor and outdoor sports and exercise classes are all allowed but it it must be organised, you can't meet your friends to play football in the park.
Elite sporting competition or training is also allowed.
Protests
Protests are also exempt from the rule of six in England.
The protests and political activities must be organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessments.
Other exemptions:
You can be in gatherings larger than six for these reasons:
- Fulfilling legal obligations such as attending court or jury service.
- Providing emergency assistance, or providing support to a vulnerable person.
- For you or someone else to avoid illness, injury or harm.
Can I go to the pub? Can I go to Church? Can I go to the shops?
Yes. You can go to the pub and to restaurants, shops and places of worship as long as you follow the rules.
You must be in groups of 6 or less (unless you all live together or are in the same support bubble).
While in a venue you must avoid social interaction with anyone from a different group of 6, even if you know them.
Finally, of course, you should always provide your details for the NHS Test and Trace programme.
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