Local lockdown guidelines explained as coronavirus cases spike in Sunderland

A number of businesses and schools have closed as a result of the outbreak – click here for a full list – and concerns have been raised that the area could face a local lockdown.

What does a local lockdown mean?

The government and local authorities are able to reintroduce some restrictions which were in force during the national lockdown in smaller local areas if they believe this would stem the spread of coronavirus.

The rules vary from place to place and are changed as time goes on and restrictions are eased.

A number of locations in Greater Manchester have been under local lockdowns since July which have included a ban people from different households meeting in their homes, gardens or other private residences and gym and swimming pool closures.

People in these areas have also been told they cannot socialise with people they do not live with, or are in a bubble with, in other indoor public venues – such as pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, community centres, leisure and entertainment venues, or visitor attractions.

Is the case rate high enough in Sunderland to prompt a local lockdown?

After a spike in cases which saw 83 people test positive over the weekend the current coronavirus rate in Sunderland is 36 per 100,000.

The UK government has used a rate of 20 per 100,000 when looking at quarantine regulations for people travelling from overseas but has not given a precise number when it would consider local lockdowns.

According to the government's "contain framework" guide for local decision-makers there is no set number of infections in an area that triggers a local lockdown.

A figure higher than 40 cases per 100,000 would raise the alarm.But whether any action is taken depends on the circumstances.

Last week South Tyneside was added to Public Health England's watchlist after the Borough's weekly case rate rose to 50 per 100,000 of the population.

Care homes were asked to stop visiting and spot checks were carried out at pubs a over the weekend to ensure social distancing measures were in place and contact details taken.

People were warned to ensure they are following the current guidance which is:

Only socialise with one other household indoors and up to six people outdoors.

Increase hand-washing

One metre social distancing wherever possible

Wearing a mask in indoor public places such as shops

A message from the Editor

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

Subscribe to the Sunderland Echo website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit here to sign up.

Thank you.