What changes today as roadmap to easing restrictions starts

As Boris Johnson’s road map to easing

restrictions kicks in today here’s what changes.

Schools are now reopen for pupils. Teachers, parents and secondary school children are all being encouraged to get regularly tested for Covid, as schools open to all pupils.

Secondary school pupils are being asked to take their first three tests at their school, before continuing to test at home with a test kit supplied by their school.

Primary and secondary staff should have twice-weekly tests using an at home testing kit provided by their school.

You may now leave home for recreation and exercise outdoors with their household or support bubble, if they are eligible for one, or with one person from outside their household.

This means you can meet one person not from your household,in public socially distanced.

Council-owned country parks also remain open for recreation or to exercise with one other person, or members of your household. Visitors are reminded to observe social distancing and park considerately. Toilets will remain open, subject to contractor availability.

People in care homes will be allowed one regular visitor.

The scheme will allow a single visitor to hold hands indoors with their relative or contact in a care home, and make repeat visits under carefully designed conditions to keep residents, staff and visitors safe.

Every resident will have the opportunity to name one individual, who will be required to have a test beforehand, wear PPE during the visit and avoid close contact.

Outdoor, pod and screen visits will be able to continue in line with the published guidance which has been in place during lockdown, meaning there will be chances for residents to see more than just the one person they nominate.

Biddulph Library also reopens today and will offer essential PC use and ‘order and collect’ services. Leek Library is already offering this service.

Many of the county’s 27 Community Managed Libraries have been offering a restricted service and the county council will be working with them to help with interpreting guidance, putting arrangements in place and supporting volunteers. Users should check directly with them about opening times.

Finally, Registration offices continue to operate as before, with people allowed to visit in the offices for birth registrations and to give notice of marriage.