What do the new lockdown restrictions mean for weddings and funerals?

Can weddings still go ahead under the new lockdown rules? (Picture: Getty Images)

England is heading back into lockdown in a bid to curb the second wave of coronavirus, with non-essential retail and other businesses closing across the country as of Thursday.

The new restrictions will affect many high street staples, along with businesses including hairdressers, gyms, tattoo parlours and beauty salons – while pubs and restaurants will have to switch to takeaway and delivery only.

Indoor mixing with anyone outside of your household or support bubble will also be banned, except in certain circumstances – but what does that mean for weddings and funerals in the next four weeks?

Here’s what you need to know…

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Are weddings allowed during the second lockdown in England?

While weddings have been allowed to go ahead under the three-tier system in England – albeit with restrictions on the number of guests – the rules are changing while the country is in lockdown.

According to the Government guidance, weddings and civil partnership ceremonies will not be allowed to take place unless one of those getting married is seriously ill and is not expected to recover.

Under those circumstances, a maximum of six guests only are allowed to attend.

Leaving home to attend such a wedding is also permitted for guests, with the rules saying that it is ‘reasonably necessary’for a person to leave or be outside their home to attend a marriage ceremony, a civil partnership ceremony or an alternative wedding ceremony.

Can funerals go ahead in the second lockdown – how many people can attend?

Funerals, meanwhile, can continue to go ahead with up to 30 people in attendance (not including those working).

Funerals are not as affected by the new regulations (Picture: Getty Images)

Linked ceremonial events such as a stone setting or ash scattering can be attended by up to 15 people (people working are also not included in this number)

You are also permitted to stay overnight in somewhere other than your own home if you are attending a funeral or related commemorative event.

If you are attending a funeral or staying at someone’s house in order to attend a funeral you should adhere to social distancing measures, except when you are with members of your own household or support bubble.

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