Coronavirus: What are the social distancing rules?

Published: 9 November

What are the rules in each UK nation?

Each nation has slightly different advice:

In Scotland people should keep 2m away from each other. Shops are reintroducing measures to support 2m physical distancing, like one-way systems. There are exemptions in some places like pubs, and children aged 11 or under do not need to social distance
In England, if you can't stay 2m away, you can stay "1m plus" apart (the "plus" means doing something else to limit possible exposure, like wearing a face covering)
In Wales, the guidance is to stay 2m apart unless it is not practical (for instance, at a hairdresser's); primary-age children in Wales are also exempt
Northern Ireland's guidance was 1m (3ft) for a time, but is now back at 2m

Social distancing is important because coronavirus spreads mainly when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks, and transmits small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air.

These droplets can land in other people's mouths or noses nearby or may be inhaled into the lungs. You could also be infected after touching a surface on which the droplets have landed.

The risks are far higher indoors than outdoors.

How can I meet other people safely and can we hug?

Social distancing is a key element of meeting others safely.

The only people you do not need to socially distance from are:

People in your household
Anyone in your support bubble, if you have one

Otherwise, when seeing anybody else you must:

Follow social distancing rules
Avoid physical contact like a handshake or hug
Not be too close or face-to-face
Not shout or sing too close to them

How many people can I meet?

Different restrictions apply across the UK.

England is currently under a national lockdown, during which nobody can meet anyone from outside their household or support bubble indoors. Children under five don't count.

They can meet one other person in an outdoor public place, such as a park.

Scotland is moving to a five-tier system of restrictions from Monday, with rules about meeting people different at each level.

The lockdown in Wales has now finished. Two households in Wales can now form a bubble and can meet in their own homes, while up to 15 people are allowed to meet for organised activities indoors, and up to 30 outdoors.

People living in Northern Ireland are also currently under restrictions. Support bubbles are limited to a maximum of 10 people from two households.

Are there any exceptions?

Exceptions to social distancing rules in England include:

A household or support bubble larger than six
Education and training
Workplaces
Jury duty or other legal commitments
Children's play groups and youth clubs

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Can I be fined for breaking the rules?

People can be fined for breaking coronavirus regulations.

In England, it is £200 for a first offence, doubling on each further offence up to £6,400
In Scotland and Northern Ireland, fixed penalty notices start at £60 and double on repeat offences up to a maximum of £960
In Wales, fixed penalty notices start at £60 and can rise to £1,920

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