Scotland has been given an update routemap out of Lockdown with the announcement today, that some Covid restrictions could soon be lifted.
Indeed, as well as the recent improvements on meeting others outdoors, things are set to get a ‘fair bit better‘ in the forthcoming weeks ahead as restrictions start to ease. It would seem we can all once again look forward to some degree of normality. First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon set out the plans today at 2.15pm in her update to parliament commenting on planned easing of restrictions across Scotland. Let’s look at some of today’s headlines:
Vaccination & Updated Figures
440 people are currently in hospital, 42 in intensive care. In the past 24 hours, a further 7 deaths have been registered bringing the total to 7,517 people in Scotland.
Virtually over 65s have been vaccinated, and good progress on other ages. 1,943,507 people have received the first dose in Scotland, more than 40% of Scotland’s Adult population. Around 400,000 vaccinations will be given out this week and at the same level throughout April , subject to supplies. The vaccine is having a significant impact on the number of deaths, with the rate halving in the last two weeks alone. The vaccines are also confirmed as having reduced the transmission of the virus, which is great news for mapping a route out of lockdown.
Schools
After Easter break, all children will be back in school full time. Students will be allowed back a little earlier after Monday 5th April 2021.
Stay At Home Message
According to the current plan, the Scottish Government is set to lift the “stay at home” restriction on Friday 2nd April 2021. The message will change to ‘Stay Local’.
Contact Sports
Monday 5th April will see permission for contact sports to return.
Travelling
From 26th April 2021, restrictions on journeys within mainland Scotland will be entirely lifted. This will be reviewed depending on further consultation with island communities to ensure they remain protected. UK wide restrictions should be lifted on 26th April too.
It is likely International travel may not be possible until 17th May 2021 or after. Even when overseas travel does resume, its likely other countries will require proof of vaccination.
Re-opening of Businesses
Non essential businesses including click and collect will be able to re-open on Monday 5th April 2021. Including Garden Centres. Many people will be pleased to learn that Hairdressers and salons will be permitted to open also on Monday 5th April 2021.
Tourist businesses can reopen Monday 26th April 2021. Expectations that libraries, indoor gyms, work in people’s homes and driving lessons can resume.
Hospitality and non essential business will be able to re-open on Mon 26th April 2021 including pubs and restaurants. There will be limited indoor hospitality for groups of up to 4 people from 2 households. More normal opening hours for hospitality is likely in May, subject to consultation and medical advice.
The 26th April is therefore a key date, these changes being confirmed a week earlier.
From 17th May, cinemas, bing halls and indoor and outdoor events (on a small scale for events sector) will be able to re-open.
Business Support
In the last 12 months , more than £3billion has been provided to businesses in Scotland. More support is coming. The SBFG will continue and there will be a new model of restart grants to get the economy going and businesses back to work. A final 4 week payment will be received on 19th April and a one off restart grant of up to £7,500 and for eligible hospitality and retail businesses of up to £19,000.
Social Distancing
From Monday 26th April, 6 people will be allowed to meet from 2 households. On 17th May 2021, restrictions on outdoor gatherings will be eased and people will once again be able to meet indoors.
Return to Levels
On Monday, 26th April 2021, it is hoped the country will return to a levels system, with most of Scotland expected to go directly into Level 3. Island communities will have option to move to Level 2.
Whilst this message is one of optimism and hope, a cautious approach is still being taken and we all obviously still have to see this out. As the sun shines today and vaccinations continue at a pace, we look forward to a return to some normality in late Spring. Getting indicative dates will be a relief to many people. Hopefully we can all have a nice Summer with family and friends again, giving all our support to deserving local businesses and put this all behind us.
By start of June, Scotland can possibly move to Level 1 and by end of June, Levels may be lifted entirely.
A final note as we bring you this important update this afternoon. Through all this there is sadness. Our thoughts go out to all the families of Covid victims across Scotland at this deeply difficult time. We’ll be remembering all the Blantyre victims of Covid on Tuesday 23rd March, one year on since UK lockdowns started.
Stay safe, everybody!
