FOCUS: From phases to stages, how Guernsey’s exit strategy has changed

Friday 12 February 2021

Following an enhanced track and trace programme and a "hard" full lockdown, Guernsey seems to be getting a grip on its recent outbreak of Covid-19 – with eyes turning towards our exit strategy.

When we left lockdown last year we entered a series of phases, with Guernsey starting its first of six on 8 April, two weeks after full lockdown. At least 26 days later this time, we’re looking at three stages instead.

During the latest media briefing, members of the Civil Contingencies Authority discussed our staged approach. 

The current lockdown rules have morphed slightly since Wednesday, with sole workers now allowed to return to work and support bubbles encouraged. Saturday will also see masks become mandatory in indoor public space.

However, life remains restricted for many. All non-essential workers must work from home, those who can’t work from home are having to to ask for financial help from the States of Guernsey and the only reasons to leave home are for a maximum two hours of exercise or to collect essential items from the few shops that are open.

Pictured: These markers are being used to guide our approach to lockdown and lead us through three stages.

These restrictions will last until there is a “medium risk of uncontained community transmission” when our staged exit from lockdown can begin. This won’t happen until 18 February at the earliest, with updates being released at future media briefings. 

Three stages will lead us back to our ‘Bailiwick Bubble’, but what will change in Stage 1?

In recovery Stage 1, bubbles will return, despite initial suggestions that they would not be making an appearance. As per last time, two households will be able to bubble and outdoor gatherings can increase from two to five people. It’s important to note that any support bubble you create in the current lockdown will count as your bubble in Stage 1.

Pictured: Three stages will lead us out of our current lockdown, it will be constantly reviewed, and we could be returned to a full lockdown if required.

Some work places will be able to operate, as long as they are non-public facing. These businesses will need to request permission from the States of Guernsey and will only be allowed to have ten members of staff outside, or five inside if their roles can’t be done remotely.

Like a guiding light in the fog, takeaways will return in Stage 1.

“Stage 1 will see the introduction of social bubbles,” said Director of Public Health, Dr Nicola Brink. “There’ll be a greater allowance for outdoor gatherings and some other measures to enhance the economy.”

We’ll still be required to maintain at least 2 metres social distance during this time and the legal requirement to wear masks in indoor public spaces will remain. When asked during the latest media briefing, Head of the CCA, Deputy Peter Ferbrache made it clear that masks will be mandatory until otherwise stated.

Stage 2 won’t be launched until a number of criteria are met during Stage 1:

The timeline beyond Stage 1 hasn’t been laid out yet. We do know that Stage 2 will allow gatherings of up to 30 people outside, restaurants to operate with table service and hotels to re-open. 

Concerts and other large events will still be out of the question, with the very specific caveat that “no public singing, or playing of woodwind and brass instruments can take place.” If we can manage that, Stage 3 will see us return to the Bailiwick Bubble.