First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is addressing the nation to explain the ‘route map’ that will guide the country out of lockdown, as well as updating the current coronavirus statistics.
Scottish Government statistics put the country’s death toll at 2, 221 with 14,856 people have tested positive.
These statistics include only those who have been tested for coronavirus, whereas the National Records of Scotland, who have suggested the country’s death toll sits at over 3,500, include those who have coronavirus mentioned on the death certificate.
Coronavirus in Scotland RECAP: Latest updates on COVID-19 in Scotland
Last updated: Thursday, 21 May, 2020, 13:39
- Schools in Scotland to reopen on August 11.
- Phase one of lockdown easing to start on May 28
- Death toll in Scotland now at 2,221
FM: Not every phase one measure will be rolled out next week, all are still subject to public health advice
Likely changes : More outdoor activities - sunbathing, meet people from other households outside and still 2m apart.
Visiting inside each thers houses still not allowed.
Tennis, golf and fishing will be allowed.
Travel permitted though asking people to stay as close as poss to local area.
Some recycle services will be back up and winning.
Industries that will be allowed in phase 2 are allowed to make initial steps to reopen.
Take outs and gardens centres allowed.
Face to face children’s hearings to start, and people at risk more contact with social services.
Resumption of some aspects of the criminal justice system.
Speed of changes related to public health recommended.
Isolation imposed by shielding harmful - FM confirms new guidance will be issued before June 18 but no changes yet.
Phases 2, 3 and 4 - attempts to give timeline on when people can see friends and family.
Also outlines further stages on how businesses can reopen.
Getting the economy moving again important - focus on industries where people cannot work from home.
Safety crucial - guidance to be printed.
Route map also indicated places of worship may open - though funerals will still, at the moment, stick with the current rules.
Schools and Early Learning: Report on Scot Gov website, all conclusions subject to health advice
Teachers and other staff will return during June.
During June and through the summer more children will have access to childcare.
Transitional support for children starting school.
August 11 returning to school - blended model of part time in school and part time learning.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you to each and every one of you" Sturgeon addresses school children
This comment received a round of applause in parliament.