More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
At this stage of lockdown, it has been hard for many people across Kent to keep up with the changing rules.
From having to wear face masks to businesses reopening, here is a refresher to catch you up on the current guidance.
When do I have to wear a face-covering?
Current evidence suggests face-coverings do not protect the wearer as much as it protects those around them. As you can carry the virus without symptoms, masks need to be worn to ensure others are protected if you have the virus but haven't realised.
You must wear a face mask or covering on public transport and in hospitals (as a visitor or outpatient) at all times. On July 24, face masks will become mandatory in all shops and shoppers not wearing one will face a £100 fine.
Though not mandatory, you are advised to wear a face-covering in any enclosed space where social distancing is not possible.
You are exempt from having to wear a mask if you are a child under the age of 11, unable to wear a mask for physical or mental health reasons, or disability, avoiding harm or distress, with someone who needs to lip read, or need to eat, drink or take medication. Police officers or shop staff may also need you to briefly remove your mask.
What are the social distancing rules?
Where possible, the guidance still says to stay two metres away from people outside of your household.
Where this is not possible, keep a minimum of one metre away but with extra precautions such as face masks.
Who can I meet inside my home and outdoors?
Two households are allowed to meet in any location, including inside the home, as long as they remain socially distanced. A household also includes those in your support bubble.
You are also allowed to stay overnight in another household where there are only two households present.
Outdoor gatherings are still restricted to a maximum of six people from different households. If a group of more than six people meet outdoors, then they must be from just two households.
It is illegal to hold gatherings of more than 30 people in any space.
Are weddings and funerals allowed?
Weddings and funerals are allowed to take place as long as less than 30 people are attending and the venue is large enough to accommodate social distancing.
Organisers are advised to invite just close family and friends, keeping the number of attendees to a minimum.
Large wedding receptions and parties should not go ahead. Gatherings like these should only go ahead if they meet the guidelines; no more than two households or six people meeting while socially distanced.
How far can I travel?
You are allowed to travel as far as you like. However, you are advised to take hygiene and safety precautions such as wearing masks, carrying hand sanitiser and social distancing.
Avoid public transport when travelling and only cycle, walk or drive. Avoid travelling by car with someone outside of your household as it is not possible to socially distance in a car.
When travelling to another country you should be aware of and act according to their laws and guidance.
When travelling back from some countries you must self isolate for 14 days or you could face a fine of £1,000. A list of countries you can visit without having to self isolate upon return can be found on the government website.
Which businesses are staying closed?
Currently closed businesses include nightclubs, casinos, sexual entertainment venues, bowling alleys, indoor skating rinks, indoor play areas, soft-play areas, indoor fitness and dance studios, indoor gyms, sports courts, indoor swimming pools and indoor water parks.
Exhibition halls or conference centres must stay closed for events, other than for those who work for the business or organisation who run the venue.
As lockdown restrictions loosen, the list of places which can reopen is growing. Here is the most up to date list of reopened businesses.
What should I do if I have symptoms?
If you or someone in your household shows symptoms of coronavirus - a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, a loss or change in your sense of smell or taste - your household is advised to stay home and not allow any visitors in.
If you are living with children or those with learning disabilities, autism or serious mental illness, follow guidelines to the best of your ability.
If you are living with someone clinically vulnerable, move them out of your home for the duration of the isolation or avoid all contact with them if this is not possible.
After this, get a coronavirus test for anyone who has symptoms in your household on the NHS website.
Anyone living with someone with symptoms must isolate for 14 days. Anyone with symptoms should isolate for at least seven days or until they feel better - even if they are most of the way through isolating for 14 days.
If your symptoms get worse or do not go away after seven days, access online or call 111. If there is a medical emergency, call 999.
If you need shopping, medication or other supplies, try to order online or ask someone to drop them off on your doorstep to avoid contact.
For more detailed information, click here for government guidance.
