Guidance given out today following the Government’s change in regulations by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs’ Council says that government guidance In England is not enforceable, on two-metre distancing, avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces.
People are still not allowed to leave or be outside of their homes without a reasonable excuse. The Regulations update the list of examples of reasonable excuses,but officers’ judgement and discretion are key and asks officers to apply the four ‘E’s.Engage,Explain,Encourage and Enforce.
There has,says the council,been an expansion to the reasonable excuses, and business openings,under the amendments to mean people can:
collect goods from a business permitted to remain open (click and collect) and
visit recycling centres, garden centres and outdoor sport courts take part in activity associated with the sale or letting of residential property– including visiting estate agents and attending house viewings.
They can visit public open spaces alone for recreation to promote their physical, mental or emotional wellbeing visit public open spaces with one member of another household for the
above purpose or, as previously, alone or with members of their household take exercise with member of another household or, as previously, alone or with members of their household.
They can’t says the council, go on holiday, this includes to visit and stay overnight at a holiday home or second home.Visit the homes of friends and family (exceptions include to protect a vulnerable person, for medical purposes or to escape risk of harm).
They are not allowed to travel to to outdoor spaces in Wales and Scotland for recreation (not exercise) may result in offences being committed in those jurisdictions, and so may not be a reasonable excuse for leaving home.
