The New Normal

How will UK look once restrictions are eased?

- Emily Retter

We are told by the Government to expect a “new normal” after lockdown measures are eased.

We know that a complete lifting will not happen. Rather, it will be a gradual move towards a new status quo. But when and how is yet to be established. Here Professor Keith Neal, of the University of Nottingham, helps us look at the possibilites...

SCHOOLS

Could open before summer holidays as part of first phase, or be delayed until new term in September.

Italy has opted for the latter, while in Denmark kids under 12 were allowed back earlier this month. Germany has drawn up guidance for reopening some schools from early May, with measures including spacing between desks and staggered break times.

Dominic Raab has agreed social distancing measures would need to be in place. The Scottish government has suggested classrooms might be redesigned. Professor Keith Neal, an expert in epidemiology of infectious diseases at the University of Nottingham, says coronavirus doesn’t appear to affect children under 10 – so they might be first to return.

He adds that evidence has not actually revealed kids pose a spreading risk. Prof Neal says: “Schools returning should be one of the first measures. But it will be a staged response, and schools will need to look at their building size. Alternate weeks might be one option.”

PREGNANT WOMEN

PLACED in a vulnerable group by the Chief Medical Officer in March, meaning they were advised to follow social distancing measures.

But The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Midwives say there is no evidence pregnant women are at a greater risk.