Tier 3, or ‘very high alert’, is the toughest level of coronavirus restrictions in England. So, where’s about to move into tier 3, and what do the changes mean for you? Let’s take a look.
Am I in tier 3?
From 19 December, millions will be under tier 3 restrictions in England. For example, they already apply in:
- Birmingham
- Leeds
- Manchester
- Newcastle
- Northumberland
If you’re not sure which tier you’re in, you can check online.
When is the next review date?
Tiers are reviewed every fortnight. However, Parliament will vote on whether to actually keep the tier system in place on 27 January 2021, so this could change.
In other words, the earliest you can expect your area to move out of tier 3 is 30 December 2020.
What can I do in tier 3?
If you’re in a ‘very high alert’ area, there’s a lot you can’t do. However, let’s try to stay positive and focus on what you can do instead. So, in tier 3, here’s what you can do and where you can go:
- You can still see people outside your household in outdoor public settings, like beaches and parks. Just remember to stick to the rule of six.
- It’s okay to meet in groups of more than six if it’s for work purposes (e.g. an essential staff meeting).
- Although you can’t sit inside a pub or restaurant, it’s fine to get a takeaway.
- Gyms remain open this time around.
- You can go to the hairdresser or nail salon – close contact services can stay open in tier 3.
Can I still see family this Christmas?
Yes. You can still see some family even if you’re in tier 3. From 23 to 27 December, you can form a ‘Christmas bubble’ with up to three households. You can:
- Mingle inside the household with your bubble (though you can’t visit a pub or restaurant together)
- Travel across the country to join a bubble (travel restrictions don’t apply for this period)
- Meet other people outdoors in public spaces
All that said, it’s still a good idea to limit your social contact over this period. And, if you do plan on forming a Christmas bubble, try to reduce your social contact now so there’s less chance of you picking up coronavirus and spreading it to family members.
How does tier 3 affect my finances?
If you’re worried about how the new restrictions affect your money, here are some tips to help you get through the next few weeks:
- Open a savings account if you don’t already have one. That way, you can start saving up some cash for any emergencies over the next month or so. To get started, just put away the price of a coffee or two each week. It adds up eventually!
- Cut back on unnecessary spending, and don’t take on any extra debt right now.
- If you haven’t bought Christmas presents yet and you have a large group of family and friends, it’s not too late to set up a Secret Santa. You’ll only need to buy one present, which is far more wallet friendly.
Takeaway
Tier 3 is tough on everyone, but let’s try to see the positives. There’s a vaccine available now, which means there’s a real chance we’re nearing the end of the toughest restrictions.
And, since the furlough scheme has been extended, many of us have a little more job security going into the new year.
All that said, though, if you’re worried about redundancy or debt, or if you’re struggling mentally, reach out for support.
Remember, we’re all in this together.
