Bubbles & Outdoor Gatherings

I think the idea of “family bubbles” of up to 10 people is a great way forward. I agree with this strategy. I also think it should be acceptable for groups of no more than 10 to gather, in keeping with social distancing rules, in outdoor spaces e.g. parks. This would not need to be the same 10 people as the “family bubble” due to being outdoors. Face masks and hand washing would be required in all cases. This could then allow for restaurants, cafes and pubs with outdoor spaces to offer an option for re-opening provided they could allow 2m diameter around tables etc. They would have to employ increased security to ensure that people did not cross the social distancing lines if intoxicated. Restricted opening hours would also be necessary. I’m sure there’s a lot more that would need to be considered but I feel that is a wee contribution in the right direction.
It might be necessary, at least at first, to ask people who have socialised to re-isolate for 7 days after each encounter. This could limit cross-infection rates.

Why the contribution is important

It gives family and friends the option to spend time with one another and allows for limited socialising helping to boost the economy but, more importantly, reduce the strain on the nation’s mental health.

by LLauder on May 07, 2020 at 05:33PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 3.8
Based on: 19 votes

Comments

  • Posted by StuartK5871 May 07, 2020 at 17:38

    I agree with this idea. The 10 people would need to be registered and if you register someone they have to register you so that the bubble doesn’t become just lots of linked bubbles

  • Posted by Ivh May 07, 2020 at 17:39

    I am not sure if self isolation for 7 days is necessary if none of the bubble had no symptoms and were already in isolation preciously.

  • Posted by gordonadam May 07, 2020 at 17:40

    I think this is an excellent proposal

  • Posted by lcraik May 07, 2020 at 17:53


    Face masks in restaurants is not a likely scenario

  • Posted by Ellief May 07, 2020 at 18:25

    I totally support the idea of small bubbles of family/friends being able to socialise outdoors. For me not being able to see my kids and grandkids has been the hardest thing ever

  • Posted by cj2000bb May 07, 2020 at 18:43

    It would be impossible to avoid bubbles overlapping, so suddenly your 10 becomes 20 then 30 then back to lockdown.

  • Posted by Gggoode May 07, 2020 at 18:52

    Pubs and restaurants with out door areas would need to limit this capacity further for distance between tables, so already down to only a handful of customers. I don't think they'd then be able to afford extra security to watch no one breaks a 2mtr distance aswell as having to disinfect the toilets and surfaces after every customer uses them. Also eating and drinking make it impossible for masks to be useful naturally. A social distance picnic in the park with a few friends and family would be great though

  • Posted by bhonan May 07, 2020 at 19:03

    I agree that a family bubble is a good idea but only for outdoor events. It would allow my wife and I to meet up with our grandchildren that we have been unable to see for several weeks. This has been the biggest drawback that we had to endure over the past several weeks of lockdown.

  • Posted by Ladygrinningsoul May 07, 2020 at 19:05

    I agree with stuartk5871, that 'bubbles' could become just like links in a chain unless registered. Registration sounds like a good idea except....how could we possibly police it without someone shouting that it will be a breach of civil liberties.

  • Posted by Nursewifemother May 07, 2020 at 19:29

    As anNHS worker I disagree. Whilst everyone else has been enjoying there time at home, we haven’t been given
    That luxury. Missing your family is a small price to pay for those of us who know the impact of covid first ha nd.

  • Posted by JKnight May 07, 2020 at 21:09

    I generally agree with cj2000bb. However I wonder if it might be possible to consider a small bubble of 2/3 people for children and young people. During my daily walk I have seen ever increasing groups of youths gathering together at their usual venues such as bike parks. I think giving young people some opportunity to mix with guidance would be helpful as they are obviously going to break guidance more often as time goes on.

  • Posted by AimeeJ May 08, 2020 at 07:41

    This is the hardest and least sustainable part of the lockdown. Having to isolate yourself from even the people you are closest to. Me and my bf were going to get engaged this summer and are both really struggling to not see each other even though we are only one street apart. This change would make the world of difference. And it would help so many in similar situations with cope with the length of this situation.
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