Today (Monday 12th October 2020) the Prime Minister announced a three tier system (medium, high and very high risk) of restrictions to manage the spread of Covid-19. The majority of areas in England are in the medium risk category, meaning they have to adhere to the rule of 6 indoors and outdoors, and pubs and restaurants must close by 10pm.
Most areas that had additional measures in place will be moved to tier 2 (high risk), as well as Nottinghamshire, east and west Cheshire and High Peak. In tier 2 areas no household mixing is allowed inside but the rule of six applies outside the home.
In tier 3 (very high risk) no household mixing is allowed inside or outside, and pubs, bars and gyms will be closed. The exact measures will be negotiated with local leaders.
Responding, Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said
“As these latest restrictions come into force it is vital that both the Government and local leaders recognise the critical role of unpaid carers looking after friends and relatives who are older, disabled or seriously ill. Despite the essential role they have played in the pandemic supporting the health and social care systems, many carers will be left with more worries about how they are going to cope in the coming weeks, and what these new restrictions mean for them.
“Carers must have tailored and clear guidance on the three tiers of restrictions and must be made aware of the important exemptions that exist to provide care.
“Local authorities should implement a carers’ ID system to support them – that would enable them to travel to provide any essential care – in the coming months. Volunteer support should be available for carers who need it.
“Some carers still cannot return to work because the care and support services they rely on to do so are reduced or closed because of infection control measures. It is vital that these carers do not feel forced to give up work to care, and receive the support needed to keep their jobs.”