Covid-19 Restrictions for Christmas in Broxtowe

I understand that the Prime Minister’s announcement on the 19th December will come as a disappointment to many across Broxtowe. Christmas is usually a time for families to come together and I appreciate that after a very difficult year many were looking forward to doing so. However, with rising cases across the country we must take action. 
The sacrifices we make this Christmas ensure that we protect our loved ones. It is important to remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel with the roll out of the vaccine. I welcome the news that 350,000 people across the UK have already had their first dose. The Government is working hard to administer this vaccine at speed, in the meantime we must continue to follow Government restrictions in order to protect lives and ensure the NHS is not overwhelmed.  
You may have some questions regarding this new announcement. I have included some further information below that I hope will address these:
Tier 4
The Prime Minister announced further restrictions as a result of rising cases across the country particularly in the South East and East of England. It appears this spread is now being driven by a new variant of the virus. 
These new restrictions include moving areas most affected - specifically in London, the South East and the East of England into a new Tier 4. I can confirm that Broxtowe will not be part of these areas moving into Tier 4. 
Christmas Bubbles
New rules have been introduced surrounding Christmas Bubbles. In Broxtowe this means:
• You cannot form a support bubble with anyone from a Tier 4 area 
• You must stop all unnecessary social contact outside your immediate household for at least 5 days before you meet other households in your Christmas bubble 
• You can only see your Christmas bubble on Christmas Day, this means you cannot stay overnight
• You should stay local where possible
Christmas will be very different this year. If you are creating a Christmas Bubble in line with Government restrictions, then there are steps that you can take to reduce the spread of the virus. You can do this by:
• Meeting outdoors where possible
• Ensuring indoor spaces get as much fresh air as possible by opening windows and doors 
• Making space between households wherever you can
• Washing your hands regularly and for 20 seconds
• You must not visit another household if you or anyone in your household is feeling unwell or self-isolating