Further updates for those shielding
On the 22nd of June, the Government updated the advice for those shielding. The new advice is being carried out in two phases on 6th of July and 1st of August. The advice takes into account the reduction in COVID-19 infection rates in recent weeks.
If you are shielding, from the 6th of July 2020:
- You can meet in groups of up to 6, outside in gardens or public spaces (but you should not go inside any buildings)
- If you live alone or are a single parent with children, you will also be able to create a ‘support bubble’ with one other household of any size, following the same rules that are already in place for the wider population.
- You no longer need to adhere to social distancing rules with others in your household
From the 1st of August:
- You can go to work, if you cannot work from home, as long as your place of work is COVID-safe.
- Children who are clinically extremely vulnerable can return to their education settings if they are eligible and in line with their peers. Where possible children should continue to wash their hands frequently and adhere to social distancing.
- You can go outside to buy food and medicine, visit places of worship and for exercise, maintaining strict social distancing.
Changes to support
As of the 1st of August, the food and medicine boxes facilitated by the National Shielding Service will stop. This is because guidance says you will then be able to visit shops and pharmacies.
Other support, such as priority supermarket delivery slots and the NHS Volunteers Scheme, will continue.
Further information about shielding
If you would like to find more information about the updates to shielding advice from the Government, please click here
