The 13 types of people exempt from the new ‘rule of six’ Covid-19 lockdown restrictions

The "rule of six", which comes into force today (14 September) applies both indoors and outdoors in England and Scotland, and indoors only in Wales. Police will have the powers to enforce the limit with £100 fines, doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £3,200. They say their aim will be to ‘engage with and educate’ those breaking the rule before issuing fines as a last resort.

The Government has listed 13 exceptions to the "rule of six", making it possible to meet in larger numbers in some instances without breaking the rules and risking a fine.

They are:

Where everyone lives together or is in the same support bubble, or to continue existing arrangements where children do not live in the same household as both their parents For work, and voluntary or charitable services For education, training, registered childcare, or providers offering before or after-school clubs for children Fulfilling legal obligations such as attending court or jury service Providing emergency assistance, or providing support to a vulnerable person For you or someone else to avoid illness, injury or harm To participate in children’s playgroups Wedding and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions, or for other religious life-cycle ceremonies - where up to 30 people will be able to attend Funerals - a maximum of 30 people will still be able to attend Organised indoor and outdoor sports, physical activity and exercise classes Youth groups or activities Elite sporting competition or training Protests and political activities organised in compliance with COVID-19 secure guidance and subject to strict risk assessment