It's not just schools - here's how lockdown changes from today
Kids are back in the classrooms, but what other changes to the restrictions have come into action today?
Last updated 20th Apr 2021
Children are finally back in the classroom, but this isn't the only change to the lockdown rules happening today in England.
Today (8 March) marks the first date on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's roadmap out of lockdown.
The most widely publicised part of the easing was children returning to classrooms, but there are a few other relaxations.
As the vaccine rollout continues to show signs of success, small steps towards easing lockdown come into force, marking the beginning of the return to normality.
Here are all the rules changing today:
8 March: Socialising outdoors with one other person
Two people from different households are allowed to meet up outdoors in parks and public spaces from 8 March. This means that people can sit down for a picnic or a drink, whereas before today, you could only meet someone outside your household for exercise.
8 March: Care home visits allowed
As of 8 March, care home visits are once again permitted. For many care home residents and their families, this will be the first time in almost a year they will see each other. Care home residents than choose one person as their nominated regular visitor. These nominated visitors must get tested before their visit and wear PPE throughout.
8 March: ALL pupils in England back to school
From 8 March 2021, all year groups in England are back in the classrooms. This differs from the approach in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where there is a staggered return to schools. Secondary school students will be tested for Covid-19 using lateral flow testing kits which, after taking the first three tests in school, they will be able to carry out at home.
8 March: After school clubs return
Breakfast clubs and after school clubs return today, with other child care like childminders also allowed to resume, allowing more parents to return to work.
8 March: Practical university courses return
From today practical university courses will also resume in England.
In the coming weeks and months, more restrictions will be gradually lifted until the summer, when the Government hopes that almost all restrictions on social distancing will be removed.
The Government has released a series of dates which mark the earliest possible occasion for different restrictions to be lifted.
Whether or not the Government stick to these dates depends on meeting four tests:
- The success of the vaccine rollout
- Evidence of vaccine efficacy
- An assessment of new variants
- Keeping infection rates below a level that could put unsustainable pressure on the NHS
When could other restrictions be lifted?
29 March: More restrictions lifted
From 29 March, once the school Easter holidays have started the Government plans to start to ease other restrictions, particularly those around social contact.
29 March: Larger group gatherings outdoors
From March 29 the "rule of six" will be re introduced alongside the the two household rule.
The "rule of six" means that up to six people from different households can meet outside.
More people will be able gather together if they are only from two households, giving greater flexibility for families and friends.
29 March: Outdoor sports facilities allowed to open
Outdoor sports facilities including tennis and basketball courts will be permitted to reopen from 29 March.
29 March: Organised adult and children's sport
Meanwhile organised adult and children's sport, such as grassroot football clubs, can also resume from March 29
29 March: Travel to see family and friends
From March 29 we will also be able to travel to see family and friends as long as it's in keeping with the rule of six or two households rule.
12 April: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues
From 12 April at the earliest, shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions, including zoos, and outdoor hospitality venues will be permitted to reopen.
12 April: Beer gardens reopen
From 12 April, outdoor beer gardens will also be allowed to reopen.
12 April: Gyms reopen
Gyms are expected to reopen from 12 April.
17 May: Indoor mixing
From May 17 at earliest, two households or groups of up to six people can mix indoors and limited crowds will be allowed to return to sporting events. Children's play areas will be opened alongside hotels, and limited groups will be allowed in theatres.
17 May: Possible foreign travel
Foreign travel may be permitted from 17 May.
17 May: Indoor hospitality
Indoor hospitality including pubs and restaurants could reopen from 17 May.
21 June: Nightclubs could reopen
From 21 June all remaining restrictions on social distancing could be lifted, and larger events may be allowed to resume, including theatres. Nightclubs may also be allowed to reopen.
21 June: Bigger weddings
Bigger wedding celebrations may be permitted from 21 June.
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