Latest Government Guidelines

The latest government guidance for participating in creative cultural activities across the UK and Ireland.

Find specific updates for your country below.

England

The latest guidelines for those involved in creative activities in England.

DCMS has updated its guidance relating specifically to creative events. This guide was updated on 22 December to include information about ‘Plan B’ measures as part of the COVID-19 Autumn/Winter Plan.

The Government has lifted most legal restrictions on meeting others both indoors and outdoors at this stage. Indoor and outdoor performing arts venues such as theatres, concert halls, cinemas and dedicated grassroots music venues can operate to full capacity.

Scotland

Scotland moved beyond COVID-19 Level 0 on 9 August, when all venues and businesses were allowed to open and most legal restrictions were removed. Some precautionary measures are still in place.

Wales

The Welsh Government has eased restrictions, and the only remaining requirements are for workplaces and premises to continue to conduct specific covid risk assessments; and face coverings are now only legally required only in health and care settings.

Read more on the Latest Government Guidelines in Wales page. (Last update: 8 April 2022)

Northern Ireland

Following the increase in infections due to the Omicron wave, since 27 December 2021, people in Northern Ireland are strongly advised to limit their social contacts. There are different guidelines and restrictions for 'organised gatherings' and 'events'.

There is a strong recommendation to take a Rapid Lateral Flow Test before attending gatherings and events, and face coverings and other precautionary measures are encouraged. Covid certification is also required for certain events, including rehearsals in venues.

Read more on the Latest Government Guidelines in Northern Ireland page. (Last update: 7 January 2022)

Ireland

Due to the extremely high numbers of infections across Ireland in recent weeks, the Government has introduced new measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. A Covid Pass is required for entry to events, while face coverings must also be worn in most public settings.

Currently, no indoor events can take place after 8pm, and capacity is limited to 50% or 1,000 attendees, whichever is lower. Outdoor events can take place at any time but capacity is also limited to 50% or 5,000 attendees, whichever is lower.

Fixed capacity limits do not apply to group activities, however other protective measures should be in place and where there is a mix of vaccination status, mixing is limited to pods of six people.

Read more on the Latest Government Guidelines in the Republic of Ireland page. (Last update: 7 January 2022)