Southwark Council Update: What Plan B means for you and how to stay safe
COVID-19 numbers are rising in Southwark and across the country, and rates have increased by 45% in Southwark in the last week. There are also cases of the Omicron variant in Southwark.
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the government has moved to 'Plan B' arrangements (details below). These make it a legal requirement to wear face coverings in most places where you mix with other people. They also ask people to work from home if you can.
It’s important we all get vaccinated and get a booster jab when we’re eligible. It’s also important to keep getting tested regularly and to follow current guidance.
Aged 40+? Get your booster vaccine now
If you're aged 40+ you can now get your booster vaccine if it's three months since your second dose.
You can pre-book your booster if it's two months since your second dose (you will be offered an appointment three months after the second dose).
>> Book your booster jab now on the national booking system
Vaccines are the best defence against COVID-19. Over 20 million people have had their booster jab.
If it's already three months since your second dose you can go to a walk-in clinic for your booster.
>> Go to a local walk-in clinic (if it's 3 months since your second dose)
Frontline health and social care workers and people aged 16+ with certain health conditions can also get a booster vaccine.
Get your first or second vaccine dose
It is one year since the first people got their vaccine. In the UK over 51 million people have had their first dose and over 46 million have had two doses. The vaccines have been proven to be safe and the best defence against COVID-19.
>> Book your first or second vaccine dose now
>> Find a walk-in clinic for your first or second dose
Second dose COVID-19 vaccinations for 16 and 17-year-olds
If you're 16 or 17-years-old you can book a second dose, for 12 weeks after your 1st dose. If you're at higher risk from COVID-19, you can get a 2nd dose at a walk-in vaccination site from eight weeks after your 1st dose.
Walk-in vaccinations for 12 to 15-year-olds
All children aged between 12 and 17 are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Most children aged 12 to 15 will we be offered one in school, but if you have missed that opportunity you can go to a local walk-in clinic for your vaccine.
Plan B: a summary of the changes
From Friday 10 December, face coverings will be required in more public settings, including theatres and cinemas, unless you are exempt. Face coverings are already required in indoor places such as shops and on public transport.
From Monday 13 December, you should work from home where possible.
From Wednesday 15 December, the NHS Covid Pass will be needed in some venues, including nightclubs. People will be able to demonstrate proof of two vaccine doses via the app. Proof of a negative lateral flow test will also be accepted.
The government will also introduce daily contact tests for contacts of confirmed positive cases instead of the ten-day self-isolation period. However, please check the current self-isolation rules.
Get a PCR test and isolate if you have COVID-19 symptoms
If you have COVID-19 symptoms (a high temperature, a new cough or a change to sense of taste or smell) you should self-isolate and book a PCR COVID-19 test.
You can order a PCR test kit to be sent to your home or book an appointment at a walk-in or drive-through test site.
>> Get a COVID-19 test if you currently have symptoms
Keep rooms ventilated
COVID-19 gathers like smoke. If possible, open windows at home and other places to allow fresh air in.
Remember hands, face and space
To help limit the spread for COVID-19 please
wash your hands regularly
use a face covering when social distancing is not possible
try to keep your distance from those not in your household.
Help for vulnerable people
If you are worried about leaving the house, or you can't, because of COVID-19, and you need help, there is help available. The Southwark Community Support Alliance helps people get essential supplies, supports people with physical and mental wellbeing, and more. If you're worried about a friend or neighbour can also refer them now.
Get tested if you don't have COVID-19 symptoms
You should take a lateral flow test before seeing friends and family and before going to restaurants, bars and other indoor venues. It's important we protect each other and particularly those who might get seriously ill if they caught COVID-19. There are different ways to get lateral flow test in Southwark.