The government has announced that Derby will remain under COVID alert level ‘Very High’ – often referred to as Tier 3 – restrictions.

Some areas of the country will be moving into more severe restrictions, including the newly created ‘Tier 4’ on Boxing Day, following a rapid rise in cases. Another review of local alert level is due to take place on 30 December.

As well as following the national guidance to wash our hands, keep our distance and wear a face covering if we can, the ‘Very High’ restrictions mean:

  • Meeting with friends and family: No mixing of households indoors, or most outdoor places, apart from support bubbles. Maximum of six in some outdoor public spaces (e.g. parks, public gardens).
  • Hospitality: Bars, Pubs and Restaurants Hospitality is closed, with the exception of sales by takeaway, drive-through or delivery.
  • Shops: Retail, including ‘non-essential shops’ are able open.
  • Working and business: Everyone who can work from home should continue do so.
  • Education: Schools, colleges and universities can remain open. Childcare, other supervised activities for children, and childcare bubbles are also permitted.
  • Leisure centres: Indoor leisure is permitted; however, group activities and classes should not take place.
  • Travel: Should avoid travelling outside your area, other than where necessary such as for work or education. Reduce the number of journeys where possible. Plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport. Avoid car sharing with those outside of your household or support bubble.
  • Sport: Adult sport can take place outdoors, but people should avoid higher-risk contact activity. Group exercise activities and sports indoors should not take place, unless with your household or bubble. Organised activities for elite athletes, under-18s and disabled people can continue.
  • Residential care: COVID-secure arrangements such as substantial screens, visiting pods, and window visits. Outdoor/airtight visits only (rollout of rapid testing will enable indoor visits inc. contact).
  • Hotels: Accommodation Closed (with limited exceptions)
  • Overnight stays: Avoid staying overnight outside of your area, unless necessary for work or education.
  • Weddings and funerals: Up to 15 guests permitted for weddings, civil partnerships and wakes; 30 for funerals. Wedding receptions not permitted.
  • Entertainment: Indoor venues closed.
  • Places of Worship: Open but cannot interact with anyone outside household or support bubble.
  • Large events: Events should not take place. Drive-in events permitted.

Community support will be available to those who need it. Derby’s Community Hub can be contacted on 01332 640000. A text service is also available using 07774 333412.

Dr Robyn Dewis, Director of Public Health, Derby City Council, said:

While Derby has not been placed under the highest restrictions, it is important that we remember that cases are still rising in the city and this will become more rapid if we do not act with caution.

Some of us may be planning to form a household bubble on Christmas Day, and we should carefully consider whether this is safe, particularly if we have vulnerable family members. If we do decide to do this, we should see whether we can do so outside, keep our distance and wash our hands regularly.

There is no doubt that we have had to make a lot of sacrifices this year, but we should not forget how vital a part we all play in bringing transmission down and doing the right thing for Derby.

You can read more details about the system and what each tier entails on the government website.