Celebrate Safely
Christmas festivities
As we move toward the festive season I am sure many of you will be looking forward to getting together to celebrate the end of another different and somewhat difficult year due to the ongoing challenges of covid. As Moray’s case numbers still remain high it is timely to remember and provide guidance to staff when making any work related social arrangements.
You will recall that the First Minister announced on 3 August 2021 that the rules on social gatherings were to be changed with effect from 9 August 2021 when Scotland moved to beyond Level 0. The guidance Coronavirus (COVID-19): staying safe and protect others details the rules and guidance on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The following is some helpful information for staff to make sure you keep safe and well:
Meeting people and physical distancing
There are no limits on the number of people or households you can meet at home and in public places, and you no longer need to stay 2 metres apart from others.
But to reduce your risk:
- keep a safe distance from people not in your household, especially indoors – the greater the distance the greater the protection
- meet outdoors if possible, as this is safer than meeting indoors
- avoid crowded places
- open windows if you meet inside - the more fresh air you let in the safer it will be
Eating, Drinking and going out (hospitality)
All hospitality venues including pubs, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs can open.
When you visit the above places, you’ll need to provide your contact details or use the Check In Scotland app. The rules of expanding vaccine passports is due to be reviewed and these could come into force for hospitality premises.
You must also wear a face covering indoors unless you are:
- eating or drinking (whilst seated or standing)
- dancing (for example, in a nightclub)
For organised events at hotels there are no limits and are treated as below:
Everyone must wear a face covering at wedding receptions, funeral wakes and other events held in hospitality venues, but may remove it if:
- eating or drinking (either seating or standing)