More social restrictions are being lifted today in Ontario.
Effective immediately, ‘Social Circles’ of up to 10 people will now be allowed, which expands the number of people you can come into close contact with from outside your home.
This includes friends and family members who can now touch and hug each other without the need for physical distancing.
It could mean hugging a grandparent, sharing a meal with parents or your closest friends.
Social Circles differs from Social Gatherings of 10 people.
With Social Gatherings, physical distancing of at least two metres between people is still in effect. Social Gatherings is more about general groups of people as opposed to groups of family members and friends.
Health Minister Christine Elliot says the new freedom is thanks to the current downward trends in Covid-19 statistics.
“With your Social Circle, that can be 10 people that you want to not have physical distancing with, that you can hug, that you can be in closer contact with,” said Elliott.
Some general rules to follow with your Circles:
1. Start with your direct household
2. If under 10 people, add to your circle
3. Agree with all members they are in the circle
4. #PhysicalDistancing with anyone outside your circle
5. Only 1 circle per person.
It’s hoped that Social Circles will help people who have been struggling with isolation.
5 steps for a safe social circle:
1. Start with your direct household
2. If under 10 people, add to your circle
3. Agree with all members they are in the circle
4. #PhysicalDistancing with anyone outside your circle
5. Only 1 circle per person.https://t.co/CbxBBN8RGc— Christine Elliott (@celliottability) June 12, 2020
To watch today’s full Provincial address, see below.
https://www.facebook.com/FordNationDougFord/videos/579620606020994/