The Welsh Government have announced that alert level 4 restrictions will continue to be in place across Wales for a further 3 weeks.

Although the number of people with coronavirus admitted to hospital is starting to stabilise, the NHS is still under significant pressure. The advice for people who are extremely clinically vulnerable – the shielded group – not to go to work or school outside the home is also being extended to March 31.

In some positive news, from tomorrow (30th January), two people from different households can exercise outdoors together.

It was also announced that, if infections continue to fall, children could return to school after half-term – from 22 February – starting with the youngest children in our primary schools.
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As always, to keep on top of the Welsh Government's latest advice, go to https://gov.wales/coronavirus

2020 was an exceptionally difficult year and I think we’ve all run out of suitable adjectives to describe just how unprecedented, challenging, and disruptive it has been. I know we had all hoped for a different start to 2021, but at least there is the hope from the vaccine on the horizon. Until sufficient numbers have been vaccinated, however, this new, more virulent strain of the virus is putting all the work we’ve done to protect those most vulnerable at risk.

We must all now stay at home to try to slow the spread of the virus; that means, working from home where possible and only go out for essential reasons: to shop for basic necessities, to exercise, to seek or provide medical assistance, and to attend education for those eligible. Most children will now learn remotely until at least the 18th January, with the Welsh Government to review that as the time draws near.  

University students who are able to study from home should do so and continue with their courses online until their universities indicate otherwise. For those studying practical courses, such as medicine and dentistry and social work, your universities will in touch with you regarding measures you will need to take.

You cannot leave your home to meet socially with anyone you do not live with or are not in a support bubble with (if you are permitted to form one). In public settings, such as supermarkets, it is vital that you maintain a 2-metre distance, wear a face covering, and continue to wash your hands regularly.