Kiddushim are back on the menu following the latest easing of pandemic rules in England.

Issuing new United Synagogue advice, communities’ director Jo Grose and Rabbi Nicky Liss acknowledge that “eating and drinking together is a central feature of community life and its absence from our shuls has been felt keenly”.

But from May 17 – coincidentally Shavuot - the revised guidelines allow for the return of both kiddushim and some small-scale events.

The US advice is that marquees or gazebos can be used for outdoor gatherings but at least half the wall area of the marquee must be open for it to be considered outdoors. Packaged food is preferable and the contents should be no more than wine and a small snack.

According to the US leaders, guests should be seated at tables or in circles of groups of no more than six. Food should either be served on a plate or in a box or bag for each person with no shared items. There should be no mingling between groups, which should remain at least two metres apart.

In areas covered by an eruv, shuls can offer a takeaway kiddush, which can be collected by members as they make their way off site.

Similar guidance is given for community meals outdoors, with drinks provided on the table or served on request.

Meanwhile, rabbis may host up to six people from two households indoors and up to 30 people outdoors. Members of the rabbinic family count within that number.

Outdoor gatherings are advised but if welcoming guests indoors, rooms should be well ventilated. 

Welcoming Boris Johnson’s announcement on the progression of the roadmap,  Ms Grose was relieved that the US could now further its own, “permitting kiddush and other communal meals to restart, initially outdoors.

“We’re delighted that weddings can now have 30 guests and look forward to bringing back more programming and services for children and young families, as well as social activities and support groups for senior members.  

“We will be reviewing all our protocols once the government publishes the next version of its places of worship and community centre guidance.”