Lockdown restrictions due to the coronavirus crisis are to be eased- but some disabled people may still be left at a disadvantage.
From this weekend single adult households – in other words adults who live alone or with dependent children only can form a support bubble with one other household. People in the support bubble will be able to spend time together inside each others’ homes, including overnight, without needing to stay 2 metres apart. However, people shielding due to disabilities or health conditions which may put them at higher risk from Covid-19 will not be allowed to do this yet.
All non-essential retailers – from department stores to small independent shops – can reopen in England from 15 June, if they put in place social distancing measures. And outdoor markets and car showrooms can now reopen if they are “Covid-secure”.
Also on Monday 15 June travellers on public transport must wear a face covering in England.
However there will be exceptions made for disabled people, people with respiratory difficulties and babies.
The Department for Transport hasn’t yet published a full list of people who won’t have to wear a face covering but this is expected in the next few days. Concern is being expressed that the guidance relating to disabled people not wearing face coverings is vague . For example there is a call for face masks to be made with a transparent window for people who lipread.
If you can, the advice is to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces as well, where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet. This is most relevant for short periods indoors in crowded areas, for example, in shops.
Disability Rights UK want to know your thoughts on wearing face masks in public places, including on public transport. You can fill in their survey here until midday on Wednesday 17 June 2020.
The BBC website has produced a guide to the changes.
For up to date Easy Read information and posters visit the Keep Safe website .
