COVID-19 Update: London is now in 'Very high alert' from Wednesday 16 December

The government has announced that London is entering Tier 3 – very high alert – from Wednesday morning, 16 December.

With cases of COVID-19 rising so rapidly this change is necessary to stop the virus spreading in bars and restaurants and other places where people might mix. While shops remain open, we urge you to be extra careful to prevent transmission in the run up to Christmas. 

Remember, you are potentially infectious for 10 days after getting Covid-19, even if you do not have any symptoms. 

It remains critically important to avoid mixing with other households inside - as this is one of the main ways that infection is rising again in our borough. 

Click here to find out more about Tier 3 rules, and to see how the change of tier impacts on you.

These restrictions are disruptive to both residents and businesses but they are in place to keep us all safe. Tower Hamlets Council are continuing to work with the government to increase testing and make the case for adequate economic support for Tower Hamlets.

Please play your part to #KeepTowerHamletsSafe.

Follow the new rules and play your part to keep our community safe, including:

• Do not meet socially indoors or in most outdoor places with anybody you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble. This includes in any private garden and most outdoor venues.
• Do not socialise in a group of more than six in some other outdoor public spaces, including outdoor spaces accessible to the public, a public garden, or a sports facility – this is called the 'rule of 6'.
• Hospitality settings, such as bars (including shisha venues), pubs, cafes and restaurants are closed – but can operate takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.
• Reduce the number of journeys you make where possible and work from home where possible.
• Places of worship remain open, but you must not attend with or socialise with anyone outside of your household or support bubble while you are there, unless a legal exemption applies.