Shielding Scots will soon be able to make use of a virus forecasting service that will provide information about their local risk of exposure to covid-19.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced today those most at risk from coronavirus will soon be able to sign up to receive text messages about the risk of coming into contact with the virus in their local area.

A similar messaging service was set up early on in the pandemic to support the tens of thousands of people asked not to leave their homes to access food, medication and support.

Having had “almost every aspect” of normal life restricted for nearly four months, the First Minister said she understood the anxiety that may be felt by people most at risk from the virus as restrictions ease.

The forecasting announcement comes on the eve of a significant change to government advice.

From tomorrow shielding Scots can do things like meet other people outdoors in groups of up to 15 from a maximum of four other households and use public transport.

They can also attend places such as hairdressers and museums, and children from shielding households can attend formal childcare providers.

A range of information is being provided to try to reassure people who are shielding and enable them to make ‘informed choices’, including advice on how to stay safe during everyday activities. A risk-assessment tool for people returning to work is expected on Monday.

Ms Sturgeon reiterated that at the end of the month – providing the infection rate remains low and things do not take a significant turn for the worst – the government intends to pause the shielding programme entirely.

She said work was continuing to strengthen the evidence base for shielding advice should there be a resurgence of covid-19 later in the year.

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