Scotland's Revised Strategic Framework

The Scottish Government have unveiled a “revised strategic framework” in the form of four phases, which details how restrictions will be gradually lifted in the country.

The different phases, with indicative dates, are:

First phase – between now and early March

The first easing started on 22 February with the phased return of schools, Ms Sturgeon said.
Universities and colleges are also able to bring back a small number of students for critical face-to-face teaching.
Restrictions on care home visiting will also be eased from early March.

Second phase – indicatively 15 March

The next phase of the school return could happen from 15 March, starting with primary years four to seven and more senior phase secondary pupils at least part-time.
Outdoors non-contact group sports for 12 to 17-year-olds could restart then.
The limit on outdoor mixing between households could also be increased to four people from a maximum of two households.

Third phase – indicatively 5 April

The “stay at home” restriction could be lifted from 5 April.
It is hoped that the final phase of the school return could also happen then.
Communal worship could restart on this date, but with restricted numbers.
Restrictions on outdoor gatherings may also be eased so six people from two households could meet up.
Retailers could start to reopen from this date, beginning with an extension of “essential retail” services and the removal of click-and-collect restrictions.

Last phase – indicatively 26 April

If the data allows, Scotland will move back into the levels system with the hope that the whole country will move into Level 3.
The First Minister has suggested that there might be parts of the country – perhaps more rural communities – that are able to go straight to level 2.
A “phased but significant” reopening of the economy could happen on this date, with non-essential retail opening back up.
Hospitality – bars, restaurants and pubs – may also reopen then, as well as services like gyms and hairdressers.