Every lockdown rule that changes today in Sheffield in first stage of roadmap back to normal life

The biggest difference will undoubtedly be the return to schools for pupils after weeks of home learning.

Children at secondary schools and colleges will be tested for Covid-19 twice a week, with teachers also being tested to help suppress the spread of the virus.

Some university students on practical courses will also be able to return to face-to-face learning.

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The other big changes happening from Monday, as part of step one of the Government’s four-step plan to gradually reduce restrictions between now and June 21, involve meeting people outdoors and at care homes.

As well as pupils returning to classrooms for the first time in at least two months, the rules around meeting with a person from another household outdoors will be loosened to permit recreation and not just exercise.

While the “stay at home” message will remain in place, it means people can leave home to meet one other person for a coffee or picnic.

People will be able to go out for leisure or exercise with anyone from their household or support bubble, and with one person from outside their household or support bubble.

Until now, they have been limited to exercising with one other person, but from Monday they will be able to meet outdoors for a coffee or picnic.

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Care home residents will be allowed one regular visitor, provided they are tested and wear PPE, and they will be allowed to hold hands.

People should still keep two metres away from anyone outside their household or support bubble, and the stay at home guidance remains in place, with limited exceptions.

The lockdown will be further eased on March 29, from which date people can meet outdoors, including in a private garden, in groups of up to six from two households.

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Outdoor sports venues like tennis courts, basketball courts and open air swimming pools, will also be allowed to reopen.