Next stage of Roadmap easing postponed by four weeks
Published: 14 June 2021
Let's do the right thing for Derby by wearing a face covering if we can
The Government has announced that plans to end lockdown restrictions in England on 21st June 2021 have been postponed by at least four weeks.
The Government’s COVID roadmap had laid out lockdown coming to an end no earlier than 21st June 2021, which would have removed all legal restrictions on social distancing and allowed larger gatherings and the opening of venues such as nightclubs.
A rise in COVID cases has meant the Government has decided to delay this to allow for more people to be vaccinated and better protected.
You can read the Government’s full announcement and COVID guidance on its website or visit the Derby City Council website for details.
Dr Robyn Dewis, Director of Public Health, Derby City Council, said:
“When the roadmap out of lockdown was first announced, the Government was very clear that each step would only happen if certain criteria were met. Unfortunately, our recent rise in cases nationally means that we must be more cautious in taking this next step.
“While this may seem disappointing, allowing extra time for vaccination uptake will give us more protection and allow us to ease restrictions with less risk.
“This makes it more important than ever to ensure we’re vaccinated as soon as we are able and also receive our second dose, which gives us the best possible protection against the virus.
“The sooner we’re able, the sooner restrictions will be able to safely ease.
“In the meantime, it is also essential that we continue to follow guidelines to prevent cases from rising further, potentially causing a longer delay to the roadmap.”
Currently, everyone over the age of 25 (and at-risk groups such as those who are clinically extremely vulnerable or social care staff) are invited to book their vaccine. If you have not already received a text from your GP, you can book on the NHS website.
It is still vitally important that if you develop COVID symptoms that you self-isolate and book a test right away – even if you have already been vaccinated. Symptomatic tests (PCR) are available to all citizens of Derby who have one or more of the main COVID symptoms: a new, continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss / change of sense of smell or taste.
PCR tests are bookable online or by calling 119. There are local testing sites at Morleston Street Day Centre, Austin Sunnyhill Children’s Centre, Sussex Circus and West End Community Centre for those who do not have access to a car – all of which are open seven days a week. Find out more on our website.
Free asymptomatic testing is also available for everyone in the country and is encouraged for everyone who is in close contact with others for work. Lateral flow tests are available for home delivery and collection from local testing sites in Derby. Further information on how to access regular lateral flow testing can be viewed on the Council's COVID-19 tests for people without symptoms pages.