Mark Drakeford MS, First Minister
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) Regulations 2020 provide for a system of alert levels in Wales, as set out in the Welsh Government’s updated Coronavirus Control Plan.
Wales remains at Alert Level 4, at which the strictest restrictions apply. This means people are generally unable to form extended households. Currently the only exception is for adults living alone or living alone with children, who can form a “support bubble” with one other household.
It has always been the case that households needing contact on compassionate grounds, or to assist with child care, have been able to do so in Wales.
However, the regulations are now being amended so that, with effect from tomorrow, 27 February, households with one or more children under the age of 1 can form a support bubble with one other household for any purpose. This seeks to ensure new parents can receive support from friends or family during the crucial first year of a baby’s life. This will also help the baby’s development.
In addition 16 or 17 year olds living alone or with others of the same age but no adult in their household, can also now form a support bubble with one other household.
If someone in a support bubble develops symptoms or tests positive for coronavirus, all members of the bubble must self-isolate.