Brent's Director of Public Health on new Covid measures as Alert Level raised from 3 to 4

Coronavirus cases are rising among all age groups across the country. The prospect of a second wave of this deadly virus is now real, with infections spreading to people that are more vulnerable.

This week the UK’s Covid-19 alert level was raised from Level 3 to Level 4. To prevent the spread of the virus, new measures have been introduced.

These are:

1. Work from home, if you can. If you cannot work from home, you should continue to attend your place of work.
2. Pubs, bars and restaurants must close at 10pm. They must also operate table-service only, except for takeaways.
3. Wearing a face covering is now the law for staff and customers in shops and hospitality venues, unless you are eating or drinking or are exempt. All users of taxis and private hire vehicles must also wear a mask.
4. From Monday 28 September 2020, a maximum of 15 people can attend a wedding, and up to 30 for a funeral.
5. Stricter enforcement. The fine for failing to wear a face covering or breaking the Rule of Six has doubled to £200. People who fail to self-isolate will face a fine of up to £10,000. Businesses will also be fined if they breach their legal obligations.
6. Shielding. The guidance remains that you do not need to shield, unless you are in a local lockdown area.

Unlike the measures from March 2020, there is no general instruction to stay at home. Schools, colleges and universities will stay open.

You are safest when you follow this advice:

• Wash your hands, or use hand sanitiser, regularly and for at least 20 seconds
• Cover your face, when using public transport or in busy spaces like high streets or shops where it may be more difficult to keep your distance
• Make space, try to stay two metres away from people you don’t live with.

If you develop symptoms of the virus, please immediately self-isolate. You can book a free test online or by calling 119. Please only book a test if you have symptoms.

The fight against this terrible virus is not over. We must all take responsibility together, by following these new rules, to avoid further restrictions and keep Brent safe.

Dr Melanie Smith

Director of Public Health, Brent Council