The Government has announced that from 17 May 2021, England will move to step 3 of its roadmap out of lockdown.

This will mean a further relaxation of the Covid-19 restrictions that have been in place up until now.

The main changes likely to affect almshouses are:

  • Up to 6 people or two households will now be able to meet indoors. Where people meet indoors, they should be encouraged to open a window. Meeting outside where possible is still a safer option
  • Up to 30 people will be able to meet outdoors
  • Hotels, B&Bs and hostels will now be able to open. Charities with guest rooms will now be able to open these should they wish. This is not obligatory however, and you should carry out a risk assessment first
  • Indoor hospitality, such as bars and restaurants, can reopen
  • Other indoor leisure and entertainment facilities will be allowed to open
  • Travel within Britain and overnight stays will be allowed

The government has also advised that people will be able to make their own personal decision about close contact with friends and family. This means that your residents would be allowed to hug and sit next to a member of their family or friends should they wish to do so. Residents and their guests should be reminded about the risks associated with close contact however. Social distancing rules should be followed in all other contexts.

The rules around international travel will also be relaxed from 17 May. The government has announced a list of green countries which do not require the traveller to quarantine upon their return to England. They will instead be required to have a Covid test prior to returning home and another test upon their arrival home. Those arriving from ‘amber’ countries will be required to quarantine at home for 10 days and take two Covid tests. Those arriving from red list countries will be required to quarantine at a hotel for 10 days at their own expense. A list of green, amber and red countries and the rules for quarantining can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/red-amber-and-green-list-rules-for-entering-england.  Any residents or staff who travel overseas in the coming months should be reminded of these restrictions.

For larger charities with care facilities, the restrictions on care staff working at one location only remain in place and there isn’t a timescale yet for when these restrictions will be eased.

Wales update

Wales remains at alert level three. From 3 May, the following is allowed:

  • Gyms, leisure centres, swimming pools and fitness facilities can open.
  • Extended households can be formed with one other household.
  • Indoor supervised activities for children can take place.
  • Indoor organised activities for up to 15 adults can take place.
  • Community centres can open.

Detailed guidance on restrictions in Wales can be found at https://gov.wales/alert-level-3.

Posted 12 May 21