Another Monday closer to normality! This week, motivations are at an all-time high as we move onto the third of the government's four-step roadmap out of the coronavirus lockdown. Whilst that is, of course, all fun and games - what does it even mean? Well, in a nut shell...

From today (17th May):

  • Most legal restrictions on meeting people outdoors have been lifted as well as allowing six people or two households to mix indoors, including overnight stays.
  • We are once again allowed to hug our loved ones.🥺 (and/or drunk people you meet in public bathrooms - the possibilities are endless!).
  • And on the note of public bathrooms, we can finally enjoy a pint inside the pub instead of outside in the rain! Table service will still be the norm, but lord knows it will be toasty.
  • Other indoor locations will also be coming out of hiding, including (but not limited to): cinemas, museums and theatres.
  • Most importantly, outdoor events will be allowed again up to 4,000 attendees or 50% capacity (whichever is lower). Get that bread festival season 2021!
  • Overseas holidays are permitted to "green list" countries.
  • Face masks will no longer be needed in secondary school classrooms and university students will finally be able to return to in-person teaching.

From 21st June:

  • Lord knows it’s been a long time coming, but 21st Junes marks the intended date for the government to lift all lockdown measures.
  • Although some safety measures are likely to stay in place, this means the return of nightclubs and, hopefully, large events and performances (we’re looking at you remaining festivals - please come through!).
  • Of course, this is dependent on results from the Events Research Programme, but a little optimism never hurt anyone.
  • At the very least, it’s expected that the cap on attendees at life events such as weddings and christenings will be lifted.

T-minus 35-days until normality on June 21st, not that we're counting or anything...