The rules have been replaced with advice that they stay home for at least five days.
In Richmond, the council leader is warning people that levels of the virus are still high and to not be “lulled into a false sense of security.”
Gareth Roberts is urging residents to continue using face coverings in shops and on public transport.
Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said:
“I know that many residents are concerned that the withdrawal of measures, and the signalled move away from testing and self-isolating, is too much, too soon. With case numbers still relatively high in the borough I share that concern. In particular, the plan to move away from universal free testing and withdrawal of immediate financial support for those self-isolating raises concerns that we may see cases begin to rise again. However, this is the stated will of the Government and we must abide by this change of policy.
“Nevertheless, I would encourage people to be cautious over coming months and not be lulled into a false sense of security.
“We need to remember that COVID-19 spreads very easily. And there are
some people who are more likely to be seriously ill if they were to catch the
virus. We have already seen that the virus mutates easily; keeping cases
down gives it less opportunity to change again.
“Therefore, it’s vital that people continue to get vaccinated, this is
our best line of defence against the virus. And though other preventative
measures are no longer mandatory, people may still wish to consider small
interventions such as wearing masks in shops, supermarkets and when travelling
on public transport. I certainly will continue wearing a face covering when
shopping and when travelling around.
“I appreciate it’s confusing, but please remember that the Government has not scrapped the guidance about the benefits of face coverings or ventilation. This advice is still vitally important and incumbent on us all to do our bit.”