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<p>Whilst restrictions on physical contact are easing in the community, high-risk
and closed environments like prisons, hospitals and care homes are still required
to take extra measures to stop infections spreading. In England and Wales almost all
establishments have now commenced delivery of Stage 3 of the <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/889689/prisons-national-framework.pdf"
target="_blank">National Framework</a>, which allows for social visits with social
distancing and face coverings. We are working with Public Health England and Public
Health Wales to look at how we can take safe and incremental steps to improve the
visits experience. We are acutely aware of the impact of this on prisoners and their
loved ones, but social distancing will need to continue for now for most in-person
visits to protect visitors and people in prisons.</p><p> </p><p>Physical contact,
however, is now allowed during prison visits for children aged under 11 to reflect
public health advice on their needs and the relative transmission risks for that age
group. In addition, two adults from two different households can now visit together,
making it easier for prisoners to see more people.</p><p> </p><p>A pilot scheme has
been commenced involving six prisons, allowing physical contact for visitors who can
confirm that they have tested negative on the day of the visit. The information we
get from this pilot will aid our national plans for the safe provision of visits.</p>
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