We know the headlines of the new England lockdown, but what about the small print? Can you still get a takeaway coffee? Are you still allowed to view a property? And what about weddings and funerals?
Here, we break down what you might’ve missed about the new lockdown. And just in case you didn’t catch it, check out our article on what you need to know now the coronavirus alert level has been raised to five.
Food and drink
Now, remember, the main rule of lockdown is to stay at home. But if you are after a little treat, then cafes and restaurants are able to provide takeaway services.
They can provide food and non-alcoholic drinks using takeaway, click and collect and drive-through services until 11pm. So for those worried about whether they can still get a Big Mac, you can still get your fix. Just don’t expect your local pub to be able to pour you a pint to takeaway.
Delivery services are slightly different. Here you are able to get all food and drink delivered, including alcoholic ones. So your Friday night curry can be delivered with a beer as part of the deal.
Moving house
The good news is that things can still keep moving (pun intended) when it comes to houses.
Estate and lettings agents are still able to work during this new lockdown in England. So you can still attend property viewings.
And if you are at the point of actually moving home, you can still go ahead and do this. Although people outside your household or support bubble should only help if absolutely necessary.
Weddings and funerals
Under the new England lockdown, weddings and funerals can still take place. But there are restrictions and limited numbers.
Weddings
Weddings are permitted, but only under exceptional circumstances, such as one of the people getting married being terminally ill. Even then, the number of guests permitted is limited to six.
Funerals
Funerals are still allowed to go ahead, but no more than 30 people can attend. Wakes or other linked ceremonial events are restricted to just six people.
Exercise
You may already be aware that you can meet one person from another household in order to exercise outside.
But what you might’ve missed is that children under five, and up to two carers for a person with a disability who needs continuous care, are not counted towards the limit.
So, if you are a mum with young children, you can still have some company and meet a friend for a walk with the baby in tow. Just remember to stick to the two-metre social distancing rule at all times.
Libraries
If you don’t have access to a computer at home, then you can use your local library as is allowed to remain open to provide IT and digital services.
And don’t forget about stimulating your mind during lockdown. Libraries can offer click and collect services. Just tell them what you are interested in, and you could be collecting a bundle of new books to read in a couple of days time.
Tradespeople
If you are in the middle of having some work done on your property, or even if your washing machine decides this is the time to stop working, under the new England lockdown a tradesperson can still come into your home to carry out work.
For more on the ins and outs of this, check out our article on whether tradespeople can continue to work in tier 5.
Other information
Full guidance for this new England lockdown can be found at gov.uk. But if you are after more information about everything coronavirus related, then head over to our coronavirus resources page.
