On Sunday Boris Johnson addressed the UK and gave a speech that confused the nation. Stay alert, control the virus, save lives. Full of contradictions the speech lacked clarity and direction leaving the UK feeling lost. Yesterday, in parliament we gained a little more clarity on the road map, however each step is conditional to the spread of the virus and still lacks detail on how business will be able to reopen and when people will be able to see their families. So what has changed? We have written a summery of the changes so far in the roadmap, all of which are subject to change if the virus escalates. For the full documentation please click here.
Phase One – Effective from 13th May
- For the foreseeable future, workers who are able to work from home should continue.
- Workers who are unable to work from home should travel to work where possible.
- Sectors of the economy that are allowed to be open, should be open. This includes food production, construction, manufacturing, logistics, distribution & scientific research in laboratories. These business should follow the new “COVID-19 Secure” guidelines that will be published this week.
- People should aim to wear a face-covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing isn’t always possible. If your business would like branded face masks please contact Kiiwii Clothing.
- People may exercise outside as many times each day as they wish. Making sure social distancing is still in effect.
- People may drive to outdoor open spaces as long as social distancing is adhered to.
- People can meet up with one other person not from their household to exercise with, providing they stay two metres apart. Paul will be happy as he will be able to play golf again.
- Vulnerable people to continue to minimise contact with others outside their households, but do not need to be shielded.
Phase Two – Effective from June 1st (at the earliest)
- A phased return for schools. The department of education will engage closely with schools and nurseries to develop detail and guidance on how schools can facilitate this.
- Opening non-essential retail. Hospitality and personal care are not included in this phase.
- Permitting cultural and sporting events to take place behind closed-doors to be broadcasted.
- The re-opening of more local public transport. Subject to strict measures.
- Potentially allow people to expand their household group to include one other household.
- The Government is also looking into how to facilitate small weddings.
Phase Three – Effective from July 4th (at the earliest)
- To open personal care businesses, such as hairdressers and beauty salons.
- To open hospitality, such as restaurants, pubs and accommodation.
- To open public places, such as places of worship.
- To open leisure facilities, such as cinemas.
These steps are all subject to following the COVID-19 secure guidelines. Venues that are naturally crowded and cannot execute social distancing may still not be able to open.
Each phase will be monitored and the Government have expressed that they will not hesitate to lock everything down again if the virus escalates. Social distancing must be followed to be able to move forward with the roadmap.
Going ‘back to normal’ seems a long way off. But the most important thing, is for everyone to stay safe and healthy.
