THE current lockdown message of 'stay home' is changing to 'stay local' on 29 March - but what does that mean?
As England gradually eases out of lockdown, cautiously following the Prime Ministers four-stage roadmap, the 'stay home' message will change to 'stay local'.
From March 29, larger groups of up to six people or two households will also be allowed to gather in parks and gardens.
However, progress on the next steps out of lockdown will depend on meeting four tests: the success of the vaccine rollout, evidence of vaccine efficacy, an assessment of new variants, and keeping infection rates below a level that could put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.
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Here is all you need to know about the rule changes from March 29.
Will I be able to see my family over Easter?
Family
New measures will allow either two households or a group of no more than six people, to meet outdoors.
Easter bank holiday celebrations with loved ones can take place in private gardens or public outdoor spaces such as parks.
What can I do with my children over Easter?
From March 29, outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, and open-air swimming pools, will be allowed to reopen.
People will also be able to take part in formally organised outdoor sports.
This may provide a much need stress relief for both parents and children alike.
Walks and picnics and BBQ's outdoors are permitted providing you follow the social distancing measures and the rule of six.
Can I travel outside of Reading to meet friends and family?
Driving
The government have not yet clarified what ‘stay local’ means.
However, the government website states that people should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.
The current guidelines state that when meeting another person this should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area to do so if necessary.
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Will I have to follow social distancing measures?
Social distancing measures must still be maintained and the ‘hands face space’ message still applies.
Evidence shows it is still safer for people to meet outdoors than indoors and given the vast number of open spaces in Reading you should be able to stay two metres apart.
Where a two-metre distance is not possible, you can stay '1 metre plus' apart - the 'plus' means adding additions safety precautions such as wearing a face covering.
Can I book a staycation or a holiday abroad for Easter?
Going on vacation
Staycations will not be allowed over the Easter break with the roadmap stating UK hotels and B&B’s can begin to open no earlier than May 17.
Non-essential foreign travel is currently prohibited for the foreseeable future to reduce the risk of new variants spreading across the UK.
The government has launched a new taskforce to review global travel which will report on 12 April.
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