Updates for residents
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Roadmap out of lockdown
The Government has set out its phased roadmap to bring England out of national lockdown. Along with the rest of the country, Westminster is following that roadmap to lift restrictions on residents, businesses and visitors in four steps.
Read the full guidance on GOV.UK
From Monday 19 July, Step 4 on the roadmap comes into effect. This means:
- you will not need to stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with and there will also be no limits on the number of people you can meet
- however, in order to minimise risk at a time of high prevalence, you should limit the close contact you have with those you do not usually live with and increase close contact gradually, this includes minimising the number, proximity and duration of social contacts
- meet outdoors where possible and let fresh air into homes or other enclosed spaces
- the Government is no longer instructing people to work from home if they can, but the Government expects and recommends a gradual return over the summer
- the requirement to wear face coverings in law will be lifted, but the Government expects and recommends that people wear face coverings in crowded areas such as public transport
- in health settings, such as GP practices, hospitals and pharmacies, face coverings and social distancing measures remain in place
- all remaining businesses, such as nightclubs and adult entertainment venues, will be able to reopen
- all capacity limits at sporting, entertainment, or business events will be lifted
- there will no longer be limits on the number of people who can attend weddings, civil partnerships, funerals and other life events (including receptions and celebrations)
- there will be no requirement for table service at life events, or restrictions on singing or dancing, you should follow guidance for weddings and funerals to reduce risk and protect yourself and others
- there will no longer be restrictions on group sizes for attending communal worship
Keeping yourself and others safe
Cases are still high and rising across England and there is a risk you could catch or pass on the virus, even if you are fully vaccinated. You should continue to exercise caution and consider the risks. This means:
- consider choosing to limit the contact you have with those you do not usually live with and increasing close contact gradually
- meet outdoors where possible and let fresh air into homes or other enclosed spaces
- the requirement to wear face coverings in law will be lifted, but it is expected and recommended that people wear face coverings in crowded areas such as public transport
- in health settings, such as GP practices, hospitals and pharmacies, face coverings and social distancing measures remain in place
- Continue to get regular testing and self-isolate if required
- Get vaccinated
- Use the NHS COVID-19 app
- Wash your hands regularly
Read the full guidance on GOV.UK
Find out more on keeping yourself and others healthy and safe
Find information for Westminster businesses as the city begins to reopen