Public urged to stay at home

People across Scotland have helped greatly in tackling coronavirus (COVID-19) by observing restrictions, most importantly to stay at home.

Ahead of the Easter weekend, the Scottish Government’s National Clinical Director Jason Leitch has asked people to continue to help, while looking after their physical and mental health.

People should only travel for essential reasons such as buying groceries, healthcare, caring responsibilities or essential work.

And he said people should find ways to stay mentally and physically active by walking, running or cycling outdoors once a day for up to an hour close to home or by exercising indoors.

Professor Leitch said:

“The best ways of slowing down the spread of coronavirus is staying at home, social distancing and hand washing so I must thank everyone for all they have been doing so far to keep safe and comply with these stringent measures.

“The social distancing guidance has been tough and has seen us all having to adapt to new ways of keeping in touch with friends and family, which is why now more than every it is important for people to exercise and keep mentally and physically active.

“But we need to use common sense. Please exercise at home and, if you are going out for a daily walk, run or cycle, stay at least two metres away from people you don’t live with.

“Do not be tempted to go for a drive for leisure. This is about going for a short walk locally, a run or a short bike ride, not spending time on your favourite sport or hobby.

“If you travel further afield, there is a risk you might come into contact with other people, whether you plan to or not, so please keep this to an absolute minimum. Only use your car to get somewhere if it is unavoidable and please remember that even in these circumstances journeys must be kept short.”

Douglas Cairns, Transport Scotland Operator Manager, said:

“We know this is not how people would want to be spending their Easter break, but it’s vital that we all play our part in these difficult times by following the guidance and keeping any travel to essential journeys only.

“Transport operators have cut back their services to focus on providing support to key workers. The only other reasons you should be travelling are to pick up essential supplies, for healthcare or to carry out caring responsibilities.

“You should only be using your car if really need to. The advice is clear so please don’t go for leisure drives even if the weather is good. We must stay at home to help protect the NHS, our families and save lives.”

Background

Guidance on Staying at home and away from others (socially distancing)

NHS Inform guidance on social distancing and tips for staying active.

The messaging is being supported through the Stay At Home, Save Lives campaign which is highlighting the importance of social distancing in reducing the spread of the virus.

A statement on the importance of using access rights responsibly during COVID-19 was published on the Scottish Government website on Thursday 9 April.