Coronavirus: Government Launches 50-Page Guidance Document for Easing Lockdown

Note: These changes apply only to England. As health is a devolved issue, Members in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland should comply with the advice issued by their national governments, As of today, all devolved government have chosen not to ease lockdown rules apart from allowing individuals to exercise more than once-per-day.

Following the Prime Minister's statement on Sunday 10 May, the UK Government has produced a 50-page guidance document outlining the steps they will take to ease the lockdown measures.

The document allows businesses in particular sectors to return to work from Wednesday (as soon as employers have put in place requisite safety measures).

While those who can should continue to work from home, the document outlines that those with jobs in food production, construction, manufacturing, logistics, distribution and scientific research in laboratories should return to the workplace. The government is also amending its guidance to clarify that paid childcare can begin once more.

The government also advises that people should aim to wear a face-covering in enclosed spaces like public transport or in some shops.

DMA CEO Chris Combemale said:

'For the vast majority of DMA members, working from home remains a suitable option for employees to continue their work. However, employers in print and other manufacturing, logistics and distribution can now begin to restart operations. Needless to say, employee safety must remain the foremost concern, and staff should be brought back to work only when absolutely necessary and when all safety precautions are taken.’

The full guidance document is available here.