HUGS ARE BACK!

People are now able to get closer to each other as restrictions ease in England. Here’s what you need to know to follow the rules and stay safe

I can’t wait to hug my parents. Is that permitted now?

Yes, you can now have close contact with family and friends – including hugs. Use caution and common sense and think about the risk of catching or passing on the virus, which spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within two metres).

I’d love a minibreak. Can I stay overnight with friends now?

Yes. Hotels, B&BS and hostels are now open, so overnight stays are permitted for groups of up to six, or two households.

I’m sick of doing yoga on Zoom – can I go to a class in person?

Yes, organised exercise classes, including those in gyms or yoga and Pilates can resume in a Covid-safe environment.

Can I go to the cinema now?

Yes. Indoor attractions and hospitality venues are open, including cinemas, restaurants, museums, theatres, bowling alleys and organised indoor sporting events.

My nan’s in a care home. How many visitors can she have?

Care home residents can have up to five regular visitors, with up to two at one time or in a single day (in addition to their essential care giver). Residents can now leave the home for a low-risk visit, such as a walk in the park, without then having to self-isolate for 14 days.

I’m still unsure about mixing indoors. How can I stay safe?

Go at your own pace and follow the rules. It’s safer to meet outside if you can – and minimise close contact. If you do choose to meet indoors, open a window to ventilate and let fresh air in. Remember, some people are more vulnerable than others and exercise caution at all times. One in three people who have Covid-19 shows no symptoms, so get into a routine of taking two tests a week and isolate if the result is positive. Maintain a two-metre distance and wear a face covering whenever you’re out in public.