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England has now entered its second national lockdown in a bid to curb coronavirus cases, in which non-essential retailers are forced to close alongside gyms, hairdressers and beauty salons.
People are once again being asked to stay at home apart from going outside to exercise or to socialise in public spaces with their household or one other person.
The lockdown will run from 5 November until 2 December, after MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of the new restrictions.
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But with the majority of shops shut, what do the new restrictions mean for post offices?
Will post offices be open during lockdown?
During the last lockdown, which began in March, post offices were open and postal delivery services continued as normal.
The Government has confirmed that post offices will remain open throughout November, and should follow their usual opening times.
Anyone visiting a post office must wear a face covering and observe social distancing, in line with national coronavirus safety guidelines.
The Royal Mail‘s website explains the measures it has introduced to keep staff and customers safe, which include changing the time guarantee on Special Delivery the opening hours of Customer Service Points at local delivery offices.
Recently, Royal Mail launched its new Parcel Collect service which is available six days a week, and means people can have their parcels collected from their door at 72p per parcel plus postage.
What other businesses will stay open?
Post offices join a list of other businesses that are exempt from the coronavirus lockdown, though they will have to follow Covid-19 secure guidelines regarding face masks and social distancing.
Other businesses that will stay open are:
- Essential retail (supermarkets/garden centres/off licenses)
- Petrol stations, car repair and MOT services
- Banks and building societies
- Funeral directors
- Laundrettes and dry cleaners
- Medical and dental services
- Vets and pet shops
- Agriculture supply stores
- Storage and distribution facilities
- Car parks, public toilets and motorway service areas
- Outdoor playgrounds
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