Ontario gov’t now allows ‘social circles’ of no more than 10 people

They will also have to get agreement from the members that they will join the circle and that they have to keep their group safe by maintaining a physical distance with anyone who is not among them. (File photo: @miinyuii/Unsplash)

Ontarians are now allowed to form a “social circle” of 10 people whom they can interact with without having to maintain physical distancing.

In its announcement on Friday, June 12, the Ontario government said social circles, which made up of family members and friends, will support the mental health and well-being of every Ontarian and that it will help reduce social isolation. This new guidance is effective immediately across the province.

“Think of your social circle as the people you can touch, hug and have close contact with as we continue our shared fight against COVID-19,” Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott said during a news conference at Queen’s Park with Ontario Premier Doug Ford.

To create a “safe” social circle, Elliot said Ontarians should first start with their current circle; either those people whom they are living with or who regularly visit their household. If their current circle is under 10 people, they are allowed to add members, including those from another household, family members, or friends.

They will also have to get agreement from the members that they will join the circle and that they have to keep their group safe by maintaining a physical distance with anyone who is not among them. Ontarians should also make sure that they belong to one circle only.

Elliot, however, clarified that the rules for social circles were different from the new guidelines for “social gatherings,” which expanded the gathering limit in the province from five to ten people. It also took effect on June 12.

“Social gatherings can be any 10 people from outside your household social circle, but physical distancing of at least two meters must be maintained,” she clarified.

Ford said that introducing this social circle is “a very, very important step forward” for Ontario.

“Social circles will allow families and friends to reunite safely while reducing the risk of exposure and spread. This means finally hugging your grandparent or sharing a meal with your parents or closest friends but, as we reopen and as we reunite, we must continue to remain on guard,” he said.

The province reported 183 new coronavirus cases on Friday, which Elliot earlier said, is the “lowest day-over-day increase” since March 28.