skip to main content

Three-Tier System of Restrictions in England Announced

Boris Johnson has announced a new three-tier system of restrictions in England, which will come into force on Wednesday 14 October.

Published: 13 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 17 April 2026 | 12:37 PM
Photograph of multiple traffic lights set up in one gigantic and confusing tree of signals.
We are lobbying hard for the Chancellor to extend additional wage support schemes to help the self-employed. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The new three-tier system will mean every area in England will be classified as being on medium, high or very high alert. Areas with the lowest rates of infection will be placed on a medium alert level. This means they will face the basic national rules currently in force.

Areas on high alert level will face extra restrictions. This will include no mixing between different households indoors, and the rule of six continuing outdoors.

Areas on very high level alert will be those where transmission is rising the most rapidly. They will face additional restrictions:

  • Pubs and bars will be closed, except where they serve substantial meals.
  • Households cannot mix indoors or outdoors.
  • Gyms, leisure centres and casinos will close.

The new restrictions will come into force on Wednesday 14 October.

They are being debated in parliament today. Thus far it seems that even in the very high alert level areas, weddings, funerals and COVID secure workplaces (where work cannot be undertaken at home) will be allowed, but we are waiting for further guidance.

The Chancellor has also announced additional wage support schemes in the most restricted areas, and we are lobbying hard for him to extend this help to the self-employed.

Take action now

Join our urgent call to the Government to do more, in order to safeguard the future of the UK’s music culture and industry – ask your MP to make your voice heard in Parliament.

You can use our template letter if you’re not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too – personal stories make all the difference.

Write to your MP now.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Charlene, Sinead and three members who attended the meeting.

MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians

MU members met this week for an open discussion on working life in Belfast, highlighting how rising parking costs, limited access to venues and late-night working conditions are placing increasing pressure on musicians and undermining its UNESCO City of Music status.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians
Shot of a large crowd at a small, grassroots music concert. The band on stage are in silhouette against purple, blue and orange lights.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), supported by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has awarded its first wave of grants to 26 artists across 211 gigs, helping deliver fair pay and access in the grassroots live sector.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists
Manchester skyline at night.

Greater Manchester Launches Music Plan Survey as MU Backs Creative Exchange

Calling all Manchester-based musicians: have your say on the future of the region’s music sector by completing GMCA’s new Music Plan survey. You can also attend a free creative industries event in the city-centre on 30 April for networking, discussion and live music.

Published: 20 April 2026

Read more about Greater Manchester Launches Music Plan Survey as MU Backs Creative Exchange