Effective 27th January 2022, it will not be mandatory to wear a face covering or need to show COVID pass in England. The measures put in place under Plan B in England, to be lifted.
Earlier on 8th December 2021, UK Prime Minister had announced a move to Plan B in England amid fear of spread of Omicron variant. Under this plan
- Face masks to become compulsory in most public indoor venues, other than hospitality
- NHS Covid Pass to be mandatory in specific settings, using a negative test or full vaccination via the NHS Covid Pass
- People asked to work from home if they can
Now, the Government has announced that the measures put in place under plan B in England will be lifted.
From 27th January, wearing facemask is no longer mandatorily required but the government suggests to wear one in crowded places. Need to show COVID Pass is also being done away with. It is no longer required to work from home.
The following changes will come in effect
| Effective from | Changes |
| 27th January 2022 | You will not be required to wear a face covering, including in communal areas of schools, but the government suggests you continue to wear one in crowded and indoor spaces where you may come into contact with people you do not normally meet. You’ll no longer need to show your NHS COVID Pass at venues and events by law. |
| 20th January 2022 | Staff and pupils in secondary schools and colleges will not be required to wear a face covering in classrooms. |
Source:
UK Government. Coronavirus (COVID‑19) Available online at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus Accessed on 20 January 2022.
