15th July 2021
Public Health England and the Department of Health & Social Care has issued updated guidance for arranging or attending a funeral during the coronavirus pandemic. This revised guidance applies in England and will take effect from 19th July 2021.
There are no legal limits on the number of people who can attend funerals or commemorative events. Those attending, arranging or managing such events should consider that it may be harder to manage the risk of spreading COVID-19 if spaces are crowded, and venue operators may choose to set their own limits. Those involved in arranging or managing such events should see the working safely guidance.
From 19 July, you will not need to stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with, and venues are not required to follow social distancing rules. However, keeping your distance and limiting close contact can help reduce the risk of catching or passing on COVID-19. People who are self-isolating or who are in quarantine following international travel may be present at a funeral where a legal exemption applies. Keeping a distance of 2 metres is strongly advised for those attending a funeral during their self-isolation or quarantine period following international travel.
COVID-secure rules, including table service requirements and restrictions on singing, chanting and dancing, will no longer apply. However, there are steps everyone should continue to consider to reduce the risk of transmission, which are explained in this guidance. All businesses should follow the principles set out in the working safely guidance.
Face coverings will no longer be required by law in any setting. However the government expects and recommends that people wear face coverings in crowded areas.