Millions of pupils went back to class on Monday morning for the first time in two months, a crucial step in the UK's roadmap out of Covid restrictions
Children returning to Consett Junior School in County Durham after the national Covid-19 lockdown(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
“We all owe a huge gratitude to teachers and all school staff. They have kept schools open for children of key workers and our most vulnerable children during lockdown, quickly adapted to virtual teaching, and carried out their safeguarding responsibilities in the most trying of circumstances."
One of the few other changes to lockdown measures from Monday is that one named person can now visit a loved one in a care home.
The next change in lockdown rules should come on March 29, when people will be allowed to mix outdoors in groups of up to six and the 'stay at home' rule will end.
The LA7 statement added: “The social care sector has certainly endured more than its share of pain at the hands of Covid-19. By providing care for some of our most vulnerable residents, care homes have experienced loss and tragedy on an almighty scale.