Considerations for you as COVID restrictions ease

As COVID restrictions are being lifted, people will have different thoughts about the risk of COVID, and about the measures they want to take to protect themselves and others. Some people might be keen to return to a more 'normal' way of living, while others might be anxious about mixing with other people. There is no right or wrong way to feel. It is understandable that you might have mixed feelings.

Whether or not you choose to go out, and how many people you choose to meet at this time is a personal decision. To help you decide what you feel comfortable doing, we recap some of the main considerations and suggest things you can do to keep yourself safer. 

Meeting other people

Not seeing people in-person is challenging for many. Although you might want to meet other people, you might also feel anxious about it. Remember that it is up to you whether or not you choose to see people socially. If you do, the following measures can help lower your risk:

• Think about how many people you meet and don't feel pressure to see people if you don’t want to. It is up to you how many people you feel comfortable meeting. It’s safer to meet the same few people regularly than to meet lots of different people at different times.
• Consider meeting outdoors to keep your risk as low as possible. If you choose to meet other people indoors, keep the windows open to let plenty of fresh air inside. You could choose to wear a face mask.
• If you are meeting people you know well, you could ask if they'd consider wearing a face mask to help protect you, or if they'd be willing to take a lateral flow test before meeting up.
• It’s a personal choice whether or not you keep your distance from friends and family. However, consider the risks carefully before making your decision, especially if you live in an area where coronavirus is spreading quickly.
• Do not meet up with anybody who has symptoms of COVID-19 (high temperature and/or a new, continuous cough and/or a loss of or change in sense of taste or smell) or has been told to isolate because they are a close contact of somebody who has COVID-19.

Going out

It is up to you whether or not you choose to go out more now that most venues have reopened. If you would like to visit more places but you’re anxious about coronavirus, there are things you can do to reduce your risk:

• If you are visiting a public place, it is safer to visit at a quiet time of day if you can.
• If you are eating out at a pub or restaurant, think about where you feel comfortable sitting. The risk is lowest outdoors. If you choose to sit indoors, try to find a quieter, well ventilated space if possible.If you are planning a trip out, think about where you feel safe going. You could consider outdoor attractions, or larger, well ventilated venues where it’s easier to keep a safe distance from other people.
• When you’re out in public, try to stay a safe distance away from other people. 
• If you need to go to the shops, try to pick a quiet time of day. Remember you can still shop online if you prefer.
• Avoid public transport if you can. If you can't avoid it, try to travel at quieter times of day.
• Even if it is not required, consider wearing a face covering on public transport, in shops, restaurants, pubs or other indoor public places where you are likely to come into contact with people you don't know.

You can find out more about keeping safe on our website, including information about returning to the workplace.

 

Published: 26 January 2022