Step three rules in place from Monday 17 May.
From Monday, we'll be allowed to meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors and meet indoors with family and friends, following the rule of six or two households. We'll also be able to choose whether or not to keep a social distance from family and friends, as hugging will be allowed.
Thank you for sticking to the rules so far. That's the reason why from next week we'll be able to enjoy seeing more people and getting closer to our loved ones again. As we take this next step it's really important that we keep looking out for each and do the things that protect us all.
Remember, limiting the number of people you're in close contact with, and for how long, will help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Step Three - what you can and can't do
Over 157,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have now been provided in Portsmouth. More than 50,000 residents have received both doses.
These figures are incredible. Thank you to everyone who has received a vaccine so far and to all of the amazing staff and volunteers working at venues across the city providing the vaccine.
The vaccination programme continues to expand and people aged 38 or over (or who turn 38 from 1 July) are now eligible to receive their vaccine. If you're in this age group please don’t delay in taking up the offer. It's the best way to protect yourself and others. If you've been invited but haven't taken up the offer yet, it's not too late. It's fine to have the vaccine if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, and there's no evidence to show that it affects fertility.
Anyone eligible can book by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus-vaccination or calling 119 if you don't have access to the internet. Your GP may also contact you to offer you an appointment. Or you might get a text message from 'NHSvaccine'. Remember that the vaccine is free and the NHS will never ask for your bank details or copies of personal information.
Don’t forget to attend your appointments for both doses as this is important for maximum protection. If you're not in an eligible group yet the NHS will let you know when your vaccine is ready for you.
Please remember to keep following the 'hands, face, space' guidance even when you've had your vaccine as you might still be able to catch the virus and pass it on to others.
More vaccine information
Useful vaccine resources
Make sure you know when and how to self-isolate to protect others.
As restrictions ease and we start to mix with more people, it's really important to self-isolate if:
- You have symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who does
- You have tested positive or have been in close contact with someone who has
- You have been told to by contact tracers or the NHS COVID-19 app
These rules apply even if you have been vaccinated - as you could still catch or pass on coronavirus to others. Self-isolating takes coronavirus out of circulation, helps prevent local outbreaks, and protects other people.
Self-isolation usually last for 10 days. During that time, you can only leave home to get tested or if you need urgent medical attention - no nipping to the shops or exercise away from home.
Read our guide to when and how to self-isolate and where to go for practical support and financial help at: portsmouth.gov.uk/stayathome
 If you've been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, local contact tracers or the NHS COVID-19 app, you may be able to apply for a £500 test and trace support payment.
If you're on a low income, can't work from home, and will face financial hardship because you're self-isolating, you could be eligible. The scheme is also open to parents and guardians who need to take time off work to care for a child or young person who has to self-isolate.
You can check whether you're eligible and apply online on our website. Anyone who is not online but may be eligible can call 02392 616708 for help with their application.
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