A year ago it was a PFAW, I know because I had/have one before at the last renewal it turned into a PFCO.
They were never GUIDELINES, they were, and still are LAW under the ANO (Air Navigation Order). With a PFCO/PFAW and an aircraft under 7kgs, the 150m from a congested area is lifted, and the 30m on take off and 50m in operation are standard permissions. The congested area part has always been in the ANO, so without a PFAW/PFCO you cannot fly within 150m of a congested area. The 400ft (122m) Limit, is again the standard but is not fully restrictive as you can go above with ATC approval and contact etc.
I have seen people get seriously hurt from models over the years (I have been building and fying all types for over 25 years). A recent and close by one, was a toddler losing his sight when a Drone being flown at home crashed into their face..... It was in the Worcestershire area IIRC.