Dear Member
COVID-19 UPDATE
You will have heard that Wales and Scotland are now also introducing their own “Rule of Six”. However, the rules for Wales and Scotland are not the same as those that will apply in England so here’s a rundown of the differences as we know them so far.
Scotland
- In Scotland, the six people can only be from a maximum of two households.
- However, like Wales, children under the age of 12, who are part of the two households will not count towards the limit of six people.
- But, like England, the Scottish Rule of Six will apply in all public and private gatherings, both indoors and outdoors.
- There will be “some limited exceptions”, covering organised sports and places of worship.
- Up to 20 people will be able to attend weddings, civil partnerships and funerals (and the associated receptions).
Wales
- In Wales, the “rule of Six” will only apply to people meeting indoors and all six people must all belong to the same “extended household group”. Outside, people will still be able to meet in groups of up to 30 under existing social distancing rules.
- An “extended household group” can contain people from up to four separate households.
- Children under 12 will be exempt and will not count towards that total.
- The Rule of six will not apply in Caerphilly because it is under a local lockdown so stricter rules are in place there.
Also in Wales face coverings are now required to be worn in shops and other venues.
England
A member this week reported to me that they had received two large grants from their local authority from the Discretionary Grant Funding provided by Government to local authorities to support businesses that had been affected by Covid-19. I have mentioned this source of funding before and it is well worth checking with your local authority if any money is available under this fund. As previously advised, this is a discretionary fund so Councils will have varied policies as to who and who not will be eligible.
Kind regards,
John
