These are the Government's current official guidelines on social distancing, eating out and overnight stays

Many lockdown restrictions have been eased in recent weeks – but at the end of last month, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had to halt a further change as a result of Covid-19 case numbers ‘creeping up’ in the community.

This meant that the reopening of a number of venues and services – including bowling alleys, facial treatments and wedding receptions for up to 30 people – were postponed for at least two weeks from Saturday, August 1.

A number of so-called ‘local lockdowns’ were also imposed in Greater Manchester, parts of east Lancashire and West Yorkshire to combat a spike in cases.

As these restrictions were rolled out, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that ‘most of the transmission is happening between households’ according to data from NHS Test and Trace.

This led to renewed calls for social distancing rules to be followed strictly as parts of the economy and day-to-day life return to a ‘new normal’.

We’ve taken a look at the Government’s advice, and what you need to do to stay safe:

Who can I meet indoors?

Members of up to two households can socialise indoors – but those from different households must still social distance from each other.

Those in the same support bubble are classed as one household.

Who can I visit a business or venue with?

People from two households can meet each other at an indoor venue, while groups of six people from different households can socialise in an outdoor business setting.

Who can I meet outdoors?

In a public or private outdoor space, you can socialise in a group of up to six people from different households, or in larger groups if everyone is exclusively from one or two households.

Who can I stay overnight with?

Groups of up to two households can take an overnight stay together.

Who can I travel with?

You should try not to share a private vehicle with someone outside your household or support bubble – but there are measures you can put in place if you have to do this including opening the windows, wearing a face covering and facing away from each other.

Face coverings are also mandatory on public transport.

What else do I need to do?

*Only have close contact with those in your household – if you are meeting others, you need to obey social distancing at two metres – or ‘one-metre plus’ with mitigating factors, such as face coverings, if this is not possible.

*Limit the number of people you see socially, especially over short periods of time.

*Limit your interaction with people outside your household or group while you are socialising, even if you see someone you know.

*Provide your details to a business when requested so you can be contacted by NHS Test and Trace if required.

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