Covid-19 update

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today announced imminent changes to the Covid-19 guidelines. Here's what they are and what we can look forward to next, provided we continue to make progress in the fight against coronavirus.

Remember, all of this is possible through the sacrifices made by the vast majority of people and through the vaccination program. Please stick with it and when your turn comes, get vaccinated.

Friday 2^nd April

• The current stay at home rule will be lifted and replaced by a requirement to stay local. The current travel restrictions – which prevent non- essential travel outside your local authority area – will remain in place for another 3 weeks.

Monday 5^th April

• Hairdressers and barbers will be allowed to reopen.
• More students – particularly in colleges - will be allowed to return to on-campus learning. That includes many students who are taking qualifications in construction, in engineering, and in subjects such as hairdressing or beauty.
• Contact sports will resume for 12 to 17-year-olds.
• There will be a limited reopening of some retail services.
• All shops will be allowed to operate click and collect services from Monday. You will need an appointment to pick up your goods.
• Car showrooms and forecourts can reopen. You may need an appointment to get into showrooms, so please check with the retailer before you go.
• Homeware stores and garden centres will be able to reopen.

Later changes

* These changes are expected but dependant upon coronavirus data *

• Once the Easter holidays finish, all secondary school children will return to school full time.
• Mainland Scotland will move from level 4 to level 3 on 26^th April. That means – for example - an end to restrictions on travelling within mainland Scotland, a full reopening of retail premises, and a partial reopening of the hospitality sector.
• The Scottish Government also hopes it will be possible to ease some of the rules on outdoor meetings on 26^th April.