Coronavirus: Measures to ease for people shielding in Scotland

Measures to protect people shielding in Scotland because of a pre-existing medical condition are to be eased this week.

From Friday, those who are shielding will no longer have to distance themselves from the people they live with.

Scottish Health Secretary Jeane Freeman made the announcement during the first minister's daily briefing.

Initially, the Scottish government asked people to shield until 31 July.

However, it said there would be periodical easing of restrictions throughout this month.

There are about 180,000 people shielding in Scotland.

Ms Freeman said she knew that distancing from loved ones in the same household had been "extremely difficult and painful" for people who are shielding.

"I hope this change allows you to resume a more normal and relaxed life with those who are closest to you," she said.

Those in single-parent households or who live on their own will also be able to form an extended household group in the same way as the rest of the population can.

This means they will be able to visit someone in their home or stay overnight without having to socially distance.

Ms Freeman also said that those who are in this category will be able to book holiday accommodation or go to a second home, provided these do not have shared facilities with other households.

However, the health secretary "strongly advised" that this is only done with people in the same household or as part of an extended household.

The Scottish government said a decision on whether shielding can be paused from 1 August will be announced before the end of July.