Friday 01 May 2020
The Committee for Health & Social Care has today made announcements about the gradual easing of restrictions relating to social, cultural and recreational activity.
Guidance has been issued which explains these changes which form part of a more detailed framework document that will be published during the week commencing 4 May 2020. The document sets out a phased exit from lockdown for the Bailiwick. Tailored measures for Alderney and Sark, specific for those jurisdictions, may be added.
Central to this framework is the need to protect the health of the Bailiwick from the virus that causes COVID-19. The document also reflects the need to balance the risks posed by COVID-19 with the broader health and wellbeing of Islanders.
An important part of today's announcement is to remind Islanders of the journey we have been on in response to COVID-19, to reinforce the key messages of the approach to lockdown and how we might ease some of these restrictions on a phased basis.
Deputy Soulsby, President of the Committee forHealth & Social Care said:
"Exercise and recreational activity measures are being slightly eased which will enable Islanders to participate in a broader range of outdoor activities (subject to social distancing and hygiene measures) and will allow them to expand their household 'bubble."
From tomorrow, 2 May 2020, each household will have the option to pair up with one other household - making an expanded household bubble. You may pair with a friend or with extended family, and will be able to socialise normally in each other's homes (but not outside the home). This needs to be a reciprocal arrangement, by mutual agreement between the two households, to be part of a joint bubble.
Expansion of these household bubbles can include the over 65s, as long as they are aware of the risks and are able to maintain good hygienic standards.
Social distancing within the expanded household bubble is not necessary. This is for home activities only and NOT for activities away from the household premises.This will come into effect on 00.01 Saturday 2nd May 2020.
Expansion of exercise and recreational activities may result in some businesses opening to support these activities e.g. golf and tennis clubs. It is important to note that any business intending to open in response to these changes MUST notify Environmental Health using the online form at https://gov.gg/covid19businessnotification .
