The new ‘Rule of Six’ and what it means for you

From today, social gatherings of more than six people are now banned as coronavirus infections continue to increase.

Enforceable by law, people face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not comply. The UK recorded more than 3330 new cases yesterday (Sunday) with 244 in Scotland, the highest since mid-May. The highest number of daily infections in Scotland was 430 which occurred on 29 April and 1 May, five weeks after lockdown.

However, deaths remain low with 10 recorded in Scotland since 4 July, compared to 60 on 11 May when the daily infections were at the same level.

Moray has done well to keep the virus at bay with only one infection yesterday, and a daily figure never higher than five since the pandemic began.

The “rule of six” is different in Scotland with exemptions for under 12s, weddings and funerals, Workplaces and Education settings are also not affected, however it does apply indoors and out.

Rule of six at a glance

1. A maximum of six people in a group from no more than two households, indoors or outdoors.
2. Children under 12 from within the two households will not be counted.
3. Individual households with more than 6 people can continue to meet as a household even if the total number of people exceeds 6.
4. The rule does apply to the hospitality sector.
5. Face coverings must be worn in hospitality settings, apart from during the service of food and drink,
6. Hospitality staff must follow similar rules to retail staff
7. Doesn’t apply where there is sector-specific guidance in force, eg, gyms, childcare, organised sports, and there will be some
8. Other limited exceptions for larger households, education, and places of worship.
9. Up to 20 people will still be able to attend funerals, weddings and civil partnerships ceremonies.

Further detail and clarification is available for the Scottish Government website.