The Rule of Six explained

Wiltshire

03/10/2020

The rules on how many people can meet have been simplified.

The only rule that you now need to remember is to not participate in social gatherings of more than six people in any setting, indoors or outdoors.

In England children are not exempt from the rule of six.

This rule replaces the previous ban on participating in gatherings of more than 30 and the guidance on allowing two households to meet indoors.

The new rule means that, apart from a set of limited exemptions including work and education, any social gatherings of more than six people will be against the law.

Police will be able to disperse any such gatherings and fine individuals involved £200, doubling up to a maximum of £6,400.

It remains the case that organisers and facilitators of larger gatherings of more than 30 people – such as unlicensed music events – can be subject to fines of up to £10,000.

Venues following COVID-19 secure guidelines – such as places of worships, gyms, restaurants and other hospitality venues – can still hold more than six people in total. But within those venues, there must not be individual groups larger than six, and groups must not mix socially or form larger groups.

View the full list of exemptions

No more than 15 people can legally attend a marriage or civil partnership, even where this can be safely accommodated with social distancing in a COVID-19 secure venue. This is the maximum number for all attendees at the event, including the couple and guests. Anyone working is not included as part of the legal limit.

From 28 September, receptions and other celebrations for weddings and civil partnerships can continue to take place, but only in the form of a sit-down meal in a COVID-19 secure venue. No more than 15 people may attend. Such receptions must not take place in people’s private homes (or adjoining outdoor spaces like gardens), given that these will not have the same COVID-19 secure measures in place.

More information on the wedding guidance.