One of the measures being considered to slow the spread of COVID in Scotland is a so-called “circuit breaker” or "circuit-break" lockdown: a short term full lockdown to help fight against coronavirus.
Scotland's national clinical director Jason Leitch recently said it was a “very difficult balance” to decide whether the controversial measure would be the right move. However Nicola Sturgeon says she hasn't ruled it out, and Deputy First Minister John Swinney also saying that the option is being "explored". One date mentioned is the October half term.
But what exactly is a circuit breaker lockdown - and how will it impact day to day life?
We do have some ideas in the form of a leaked Scottish Government document that surfaced in September.
The document noted that it could either be a “fixed, standardised 2-week period” across Scotland, or a “rolling” circuit break.
Here's what the circuit breaker lockdown could look like:
Schools and hospitality venues could close
One intervention includes closure of schools, pubs and restaurants, as well as further and higher education being restricted to “remote learning only”.
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Restrictions on travel
As with the first full lockdown, it is thought that movement will be limited nationwide to all but essential travel, probably within five miles of home.
The closure of entertainment venues and visitor attractions
Another option in the document would see entertainment venues like cinemas and visitor attractions like museums close down again.
Avoid public transport
A circuit breaker could also entail a message to “avoid” public transport and the imposition of further restrictions on care home and hospital visiting.
At the time of the leak, Sturgeon said: “I’ve heard about the screen grab. I’m not going to comment on leaked documents, whether they are genuine or not.
"What I would say is that any responsible Government right now would be looking at a whole range of different options.”
However on 30 September, John Swinney confirmed officials were conducting "detailed work" on the proposal, which could be implemented in this month's school holidays.
