These are all the changes to lockdown happening in England today

Today, Monday 29 March, marks the second stage of the government's roadmap out of lockdown

These are all the changes to lockdown happening in England today
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These are all the changes to lockdown happening in England today

As of this moment, Brits will finally be able to meet outside to socialize either as a group of up to six people or more if they are from only two separate households.

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How much can we socialize now?

Since the first set of restrictions were lifted on 8 March, schools, colleges and Higher Education practical courses reopened for students to be able to attend classes in person. We were also able to meet with only one other person from outside our household to socialize.

Today will see people in England finally be able to gather in outdoor spaces including garden and park gatherings and participating in outdoor sporting activities. With the two household rule, two families exceeding a total of 6 members will be permitted meaning that larger family gatherings, provided that they come from only two different houses, will be allowed. The UK government website said:

The evidence shows that it is safer for people to meet outdoors rather than indoors," the government website says.

Adding that:

And this is why from 29 March, when most schools start to break up for the Easter holidays, outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either 6 people (the Rule of 6) or 2 households will also be allowed, making it easier for friends and families to meet outside.

Sport, leisure and travel

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts as well as swimming pools will reopen and formally organized outdoor sports will have no limit to the amount of people that can participate.

Working from home will remain prioritized and commuting (especially during peak hours) should be kept at a minimum when possible. Traveling abroad will remain prohibited except under valid justification but categorically excluding international holidays.

Finally, childcare and supervised activities will be permitted which would also include formally organized parent and child groups that can go up to 15 people at a time.

UK Coronavirus: What Are the Rules for England’s New Lockdown? UK Coronavirus: What Are the Rules for England’s New Lockdown?