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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Sophie McCoid

England's rule of six and what it means for babies and children

People are able to meet up with their friends and families outside from today, as the rule of six returns.

From today, Monday March 29, people can meet up in groups of six, or any amount of people from two households.

But some people are unsure if the rule of six includes babies and children.

Last year when the rule was introduced in England children and babies were included in the six people.

In Scotland and Wales children under 12 were exempt from the rules, but in England they counted.

It was hoped that this time that children wouldn't count in the six, but they still do.

However the government have made a slight change in the fact that two households can meet up, with no limit on the people involved as long as it's just two households.

This means for example that two parents with three children can meet up with their friends with a child despite this actually being eight people.

The government said the amendment aims to provide “greater flexibility, recognising the different situations faced by families and individuals”.

From today rules on some outdoor activities are also being relaxed and this includes children's groups.

Find your nearest vaccination centre by entering your postcode below

Parent and child groups can take place outside from today, with up to 15 people present - and children under five do not count towards this number.

This is despite children under five counting towards the rule of six.

Support and childcare bubbles can also continue as one household, as they have been previously.

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