Following the government's publication of the roadmap out of lockdown, we have prepared some initial guidance and a summary of the steps as it relates to our local sector. 

We will keep the community informed on any further developments, announcements and guidance via these eBulletins and our COVID-19 News & Support Resources webpage, which you can visit at any time.

CVS Members can contact their dedicated CVS Development Officer for any direct 1 to 1 support or guidance you may need. Our friendly team of development officers are here to support organisations like yours through any challenges you may face. 

The 4 Step Roadmap is not set in stone and is subject to change as the government proceeds cautiously. There is no desire to return to a tiered system of restrictions or another lockdown. Therefore, volunteers need to continue to operate from home until 29th March, when the ‘stay at home’ message will be lifted and organisations can look at volunteering on site once more. The government’s furlough scheme is also due to end on 30th April but self-isolation payments will continue into the Summer.

At the moment:

Group activity continues in a distanced manner online etc. Support groups that have to be delivered in person can continue for up to 15 participants, (not including staff or children under 5years old) where formally organised to provide mutual aid, therapy or any other form of support. They cannot be held in someone’s home.

Step 1 from 8th March:

• Wraparound childcare is permitted to allow parents/carers to work, attend education, medical care or a support group.

Step 1 continued, from 29th March:

• Groups of 6 can meet outdoors
• Parent and child groups of maximum of 15 (under 5s not included in the 15) can meet outdoors
• Indoor childcare and supervised activities are still restricted to those whose parents/carers are working, attending education, medical appointments or a support group
• Outdoor sports can restart for all ages
• Any outdoor childcare and supervised activities can restart

Step 2, no earlier than 12 April

• Indoor leisure facilities can reopen (excluding saunas and steam rooms)
• Outdoor attractions restart
• libraries and community centres can reopen
• Charity shops reopen
• All children’s activities indoor and out can restart
• Indoor parent and children groups (max 15 parents)

Step 3, no earlier than May 17th

• 30 person limit to outdoor gatherings
• Indoor hospitality can reopen, adhering to social distancing
• Indoor entertainment eg museums, cinemas and children’s play areas can reopen
• Organised indoor sports and exercise classes for adults can restart
• Remaining outdoor entertainment (incl performances) to open
• Wedding, receptions, funerals and commemorative events can take place with max 30 people

Step 4, no earlier than 21 June means:

No legal limits on social contact

Opening of nightclubs and larger events

No legal limits on life events eg weddings and funerals