North East restrictions: What are the new Covid-19 rules?

The North East will be in tier two of the government's new system

The whole of the North East has entered a "high" Covid alert level in the government's new three-tier lockdown system.

Nearly 2.7 million people in 11 council areas from Northumberland down to Redcar are in the second tier and affected by restrictions from Wednesday.

Here we try to answer some of your questions.

What are the new rules?

Darlington, Stockton and Redcar will now face additional measures similar to the ones already in place in Tyneside, Wearside, Northumberland and County Durham.

Socialising between households in any indoor setting, including homes, pubs and restaurants, will be against the law.

People are only allowed to mix indoors with their own households or support bubbles.

In other words, you can't go into your friend or relative's house - and you can't arrange to go for a drink or meal indoors with someone you don't live with.

This also applies if you travel outside of the affected areas. Schools and workplaces are not affected.

These rules still apply to Newcastle, South Tyneside, North Tyneside, Gateshead, Sunderland, County Durham, Northumberland, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, but they have actually eased slightly.

Anyone in the North East can now meet in groups of up to six from different households anywhere outside, including in private gardens, parks, beaches and outdoor hospitality areas such as beer gardens.

Am I in an affected area?

Find out by entering your postcode below.

If you cannot see the look-up click here.

What are the penalties if I break the new law?

Anyone found to be breaking the rules could be dispersed by police.

Those aged over 18 can be fined and could face a £200 bill for their first offence, which would be halved if paid within 14 days.

Second offences would incur a £400 fine, which would then double for each subsequent offence up to a maximum of £6,400.

Businesses breaking the rules can be fined up to £10,000.

The restrictions will affect nearly 2.7 million people

Why can I visit the pub but not my parents' or friends' house?

The rules say the hospitality industry has enhanced measures, such as risk assessments, one-way systems and mandatory taking of personal details for testing and tracing, which private homes do not have.

Plus they have to close between 22:00 and 05:00 and only offer table service for food and drinks.

Who can meet indoors?

Official support groups set up to help people can still meet, including ones helping victims of crime (including domestic abuse), people with addictions, new parents, people caring for others, sexuality and identity support groups, and people who have suffered bereavement.

Can family or friends look after my children?

Yes, but there are some caveats. Childcare bubbles will be able to form to allow families to share caring responsibilities with another household, as long as it is only between those two households.

This includes formal and informal arrangements, and at least one child must be 13 or under.

People in support bubbles in these areas can also continue to meet in any setting.

Children of parents who are separated can continue to move between homes.

Can weddings and funerals still take place in the North East?

Yes. The national guidance still stands, so there are 15 people allowed at weddings and civil partnerships, and 30 people allowed at funerals.

Pubs currently have a 22:00 curfew

Can I use public transport?

Yes, but the government wants people to reduce the number of journeys they make.

If people need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible, and plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes.

Can I pick up someone that I don't live with in my car?

The government's advice remains that you should try not to share a vehicle with those outside of your household or support bubble, but if you do need to, open the windows, wear masks and try to share with the same people.

Can I go on holiday in or outside the North East?

Yes, as long as you don't share accommodation with people you don't live or bubble with, or socialise with them in any indoor setting.

The exception is the Liverpool City Region, which people are urged not to visit.

If you go abroad, be aware of the self-isolation rules involving certain countries and local advice.

There are new signs warning people to maintain social distancing

Am I allowed to have tradespeople in my house?

Yes. Registered tradespeople can go to work in homes as long as they follow guidance on how to work safely, including social distancing, hand washing and potentially using screens.

Can grassroots sports continue?

Yes, but outside for adults. Any adult inside sports must be socially distanced. Youth and disability sport can be held indoors as normal though.

When will the restrictions be lifted?

No-one knows. Health Secretary Matt Hancock must review the areas covered by the rules every 14 days, and the restrictions themselves must be reviewed every 28 days.

The law expires after six months, unless a further order is made.

• LOCKDOWN LOOK-UP: The rules in your area

• THREE TIERS: How will the system work?

• SOCIAL DISTANCING: Can I give my friends a hug?

• PAY-PACKET SUPPORT: What will I be paid under the new scheme?

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