May 17th will mark stage three of Boris Johnson’s road map out of lockdown, if all goes to plan.

With coronavirus infection rates falling and the vaccine rollout in full swing, stage three should go ahead on schedule like the rest of the roadmap so far.

The UK Government has confirmed that Step 3 of the lockdown roadmap in England will take place no earlier than 17 May, following a further review of the data and four key tests.

It will also allow changes to the way hair and beauty salons operate with the National Hair and Beauty Federation updating people in England about key changes.

Posting on Facebook they said: “The Close Contact Services guidance has been updated for England.

“When step 3 comes into force (due to start no earlier than 17 May) you will be able to provide reading materials such as newspapers and magazines in client waiting areas.

“You will be able to provide refreshments in line with the guidance for restaurants, pubs, and bars.”

They added: “The government have committed to giving one week’s notice before step 3 begins.”

📣 Latest update from England The Close Contact Services guidance has been updated for England. When step 3 comes...

Posted by National Hair & Beauty Federation on Thursday, May 6, 2021

Other changes you will see on May 17

Providing it is safe to go ahead with the next stage as planned, all of the most high-risk sectors will be allowed to reopen, with Covid-secure guidance in place.

Rules currently allow people to gather in small groups outdoors, as well as enjoy outdoor dining at pubs, cafes and restaurants, although a large number of measures are still in place.

This month, we will see further sectors of the economy allowed to reopen, as well as the possible resumption of international travel.

This will include the reopening of:

  • indoor hospitality, with no requirement for a substantial meal to be served alongside alcoholic drinks, and no curfew. The requirement to order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’) will remain
  • remaining outdoor entertainment, such as outdoor theatres and cinemas
  • indoor entertainment, such as museums, cinemas and children’s play areas
  • remaining accommodation, such as hotels, hostels and B&Bs
  • adult indoor group sports and exercise classes
  • some large events, including conferences, theatre and concert performances and sports events. Controlled indoor events of up to 1,000 people, or 50 per cent of a venue’s capacity (whichever is lower) will be allowed, as will outdoor events with a capacity of either 4,000 or 50 per cent capacity. The Government will also make a special provision for large, outdoor, seated venues where crowds can be safely distributed, allowing up to 10,000 people or 25 per cent of total seated capacity.
  • international travel, subject to review

Weddings, receptions, funerals, and commemorative events, including wakes, can also go ahead from this date with up to 30 attendees.

A broader range of stand-alone life events will also be permitted, including bar mitzvahs and christenings.

Most legal restrictions on meeting others outdoors will be lifted, but gatherings of more than 30 people outdoors will remain illegal.

Indoors, people will be able to meet socially in a group of 6, or with one other household. The Government has said it may be possible to go further than this at this stage, but it will depend on the data.