New measures are now in place across England to help protect people, prevent the spread of Covid-19 and support businesses and employees.

The government has produced guidance which sets out the full list of new measures, which includes how we all should stay at home if we can and only leave home for specific reasons, such as:

  • For childcare or education, with schools, colleges and universities remaining open.
  • For work, where your place of work remains open and you cannot work from home.
  • To exercise outdoors or visit an outdoor public place, with the people you live with, your support bubble, or one other person from another household.
  • For medical reasons, like appointments, emergencies or to avoid or escape risk of injury or harm, such as domestic abuse.
  • To shop for basic necessities like food and medicine, although this should be done as infrequently as possible and please try to avoid bulk buying of items other residents will need.
  • To visit members of your support bubble or to provide care for vulnerable people.

Certain businesses must also close, including all non-essential retail, indoor and outdoor leisure facilities like gyms, swimming pools and theme parks, entertainment venues like cinemas and galleries and personal care facilities like hair and beauty salons.

Additional support for businesses and employees

A range of additional support is available for businesses and employees, with the extension of the:

A further series of grants will also be available to businesses forced to close due to local or national restrictions.

Support for those experiencing financial hardship

Anyone experiencing financial hardship should call the community helpline on 0300 200 1008, where someone will direct them to the support they need. Information about the support available and how it can be accessed is available on Surrey County Council’s website.

You can also find more details and help available locally on our website at www.tandridge.gov.uk/coronavirus.