Today (4 January 2021), Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a national lockdown, in response to a rapid rise in cases.

Citizens are asked to begin adhering to new regulations from this evening, which will legally come into force across the country from Wednesday morning. Schools and other educational settings should close and move to remote learning from tomorrow, Tuesday 5 January.

The new regulations for all citizens to stay at home unless for essential reasons. The Government is asking the public to adhere to the following:

  • Stay at home, except for legally exempt purposes, such as shopping for essentials or work that you cannot do from home
  • Prevent any mixing with people we do not live with
  • Schools and other educational settings should close and move to remote learning apart from vulnerable children or those whose parents are key workers
  • Begin shielding again if you have been required to do so previously 

Read about the new restrictions in full on the Government website.

Leader of Derby City Council, Councillor Chris Poulter, said:

While none of us would wish for further restrictions, these latest measures are unfortunately necessary for us to regain control over the virus. We should all work our hardest to do the right thing for Derby and stay home except for essential reasons.

We hope our unfolding nationwide vaccination programme, as well as the imminent roll-out of community testing, will help Derby to reduce transmission and move away from severe restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, do remember that there is always help and support available for those who need it in Derby through our support grants and Derby’s Community Hub.

Community support will be available throughout this period. Derby’s Community Hub can be contacted on 01332 640000. A text service is also available using 07774 333412.

Financial support will also be available for eligible businesses that are unable to operate due to the restrictions. More details can be found on the Derby City Council website.

There may be some impact on Council services which are not able to run in line with Government guidance over the coming weeks. We will be updating our website regularly with the status of our services.