As from 16 August 2021, if someone in your household has symptoms or has tested positive for COVID-19 or if you have been “pinged” by NHS Test and Trace, you will no longer be required to self-isolate if any of the below exemptions apply:

• you have had two doses of the vaccine and 14 days have passed since your second dose
• you are under 18-years-old
• you are taking part or have taken part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial
• you are not able to get vaccinated for medical reasons

Even if you do not have symptoms and are not required to self-isolate because of the above exemptions, it is recommended that you seek a PCR test, think about limiting contact with others and consider wearing a face mask in enclosed spaces.

You will only be required to self-isolate if the following apply:

• you have tested positive or are showing symptoms
• someone in your household has tested positive and you are not fully vaccinated
• you have been told to self-isolate by NHS Track and Trace and you are not fully vaccinated

The self-isolation period is currently 10 days from the date your symptoms started or the day you had the test if you did not have symptoms.

If you do not self-isolate in accordance with the rules, you could be fined anywhere between £1,000 and £10,000. An employer will also be committing an offence and can be fined if they know an employee is required to self-isolate, but the employer allows them to attend work.