Coronavirus (COVID-19) Phase 2: staying safe and protecting others (physical distancing)

Overview

To stay safe and protect others we must minimise the opportunity for Coronavirus (COVID-19) to spread from one person to another.

The current status of the epidemic in Scotland means that the changes in Phase 2 will be introduced in stages, rather than all at once.

If the scientific and medical evidence indicates it is safe to make changes, the key dates we are working to are: 22 and 29 June. Further details of our plans for this phase are included in the Coronavirus Phase 2 Route Map. 

Please follow this guidance and consider your safety - and the safety of others - at all times.

When we reduce our day-to-day contact with other people, we will reduce the spread of the infection.

In Phase 2 – the three main measures are still in place:

• requiring people to stay at home, except for  limited purposes
• closing certain business and venues
• stopping most gatherings of more than three households

However over these three weeks the nature of these measures will change and suppressing the virus will rely less on people staying at home, and more on people following essential hygiene measures and following physical distancing.

Bear in mind that some people – for example those with sight loss, autism, learning disabilities, dementia or other communication or mobility needs - may find physical distancing rules more difficult to follow than others. Please be considerate by giving way when you are out and about.

Before leaving your home you should plan how you will keep safe and minimise risk.

Things to consider:

• whether and how you will avoid touching surfaces that others have touched and how you will practise good hygiene
• where physical distancing might be more difficult to follow, and how you will avoid or reduce the risk
• what additional things you may need to take with you, such as hand sanitiser, a bag for used tissues and a face covering

Every person in Scotland must comply with these measures

The relevant authorities, including the police, have been given the powers to enforce them – including through fines and dispersing gatherings.

These measures are in force for 6 months in the first instance, unless revoked.

These measures are reviewed at least once every 21 days.