Two million of the most vulnerable people in England are now permitted to meet up with someone from a different household, having been shielding at home for weeks.
From today, clinically extremely vulnerable people, including organ recipients, cancer sufferers and those with severe respiratory conditions, can take a step towards returning to normal after 10 weeks.
The government has updated its guidance for people who are shielding taking into account that COVID-19 disease levels are substantially lower now than when shielding was first introduced.
People who are shielding remain vulnerable and should continue to take precautions but can now leave their home if they wish, as long as they are able to maintain strict social distancing.