A NEW change in lockdown rules means people with health conditions can now leave home twice a day.

It comes after a legal discussion between Public Health England and a firm representing two autistic children who need to leave twice for their health.

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Now those with health conditions which require them to leave home more than once a day will be allowed to do so.

The updated guidance now reads: "You can leave your home for medical need.

"If you (or a person in your care) have a specific health condition that requires you to leave the home to maintain your health – including if that involves travel beyond your local area – then you can do so.

"This could, for example, include where individuals with learning disabilities or autism require specific exercise in an open space two or three times each day – ideally in line with a care plan agreed with a medical professional."

Before the change Brits were only allowed to leave their homes once a day and not allowed to travel significant distances.

It comes after Birdmans LLP law firm was asked to help by two families with children on the autistic spectrum.

The firm explained: "One child in particular is deliberately taken to a quiet location that is not local to them, because of their particular needs and where there is a far more limited risk of infection (of him and others) than if he were to remain in an urban environment.

"It was submitted that adults and children with certain health conditions (including those with autism and mental health conditions) were disproportionately impacted by the inflexible policy which required everyone to only leave the house for exercise once per day, and which was therefore unlawful and discriminatory."

After the change, a spokesperson for the Cabinet Office said: “The single most important action we can all take, in fighting coronavirus, is to stay at home in order to save lives, protect the vulnerable and protect the NHS.

“We understand that this will be more difficult for some, that’s why we clarified the guidance regarding the needs of those with specific health conditions such as learning disabilities or autism."

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