Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a “cautious” easing of lockdown in England, but what has actually changed?
The main change to the rules means small social gatherings are now permitted, but Mr Johnson also confirmed alterations regarding schools and retail businesses at the Downing Street press conference on Thursday.
The Prime Minister confirmed that all five tests required for the next phase of restrictions to begin have been met, meaning more pupils can return to school and outdoor retail and car showrooms can open from Monday in England.
Mr Johnson outlined that people would be able to see “both parents at once, or both grandparents at once” in what he said would be a “long-awaited and joyful moment” for many.
England’s primary schools will widen the number of pupils they are taking. The plan will see classrooms reopen in stages, beginning with reception, Year 1 and Year 6. Years 2 to 5 would return later in June.
More than two dozen councils with more than 2,000 primary schools between them have warned they may not reopen on June 1.
And the government has admitted schools won’t open in a “uniform” way across the country. So if you are in any doubt, you should check in with your child’s schools about their plans.
Secondary pupils in years 10 and 12, could go back in some limited form a few weeks later, but secondary schools are not expected to open fully until September.