Easing of Plan B restrictions in England starts this week

England’s Covid-19 Plan B restrictions started easing this week – as Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the end to measures introduced to combat the Omicron variant.

These included mask-wearing on public transport and in shops, guidance to work from home and vaccine certificates. Compulsory self-isolation for people with COVID will also end on 24 March

What are the new rules?

• Guidance to work from home (ended 19 January)

• Guidance for staff and pupils to wear masks in classrooms (ended 20 January)

From Thursday 27 January

• Staff and pupils will no longer have to wear masks in communal areas

• There will be an end to compulsory mask-wearing in any setting – although they will still be recommended in some places.

• People will no longer have to show a COVID pass to enter large venues like nightclubs
• Restrictions on visits to care homes will be eased

Announcing the measures in the Commons, Mr Johnson said: “…In the country at large we will continue to suggest the use of face coverings in enclosed or crowded spaces, particularly when you come into contact with people you don’t normally meet, but we will trust the judgment of the British people and no longer criminalise anyone who chooses not to wear one.”

For the latest information and guidance visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus