Step 2 of the Roadmap to Recovery commenced on Monday 12th April which is good news, but what does it mean for our community buildings? Whilst this next step does allow for community buildings to reopen, there are only a few permitted activities within this step. These include formal support groups, gyms for individual use and children’s activities, but there are still restrictions associated with these activities including a limit on the number of people who can attend, and social contact rules still apply. Further details can be found here. The implementation of COVID secure measures is vital to ensure venues are as safe as possible, as this will help to minimise the spread of the virus and hopefully allow step 3 of the recovery plan to be implemented in a few weeks’ time. Reviewing and refreshing risk assessments is a good way to check everything is in place for when you start to welcome back your users. In line with the roadmap out of lockdown, Durham County Council are offering free LFD testing at sites cross the county for all residents This is another way to help keep everyone safe and minimise the spread of the virus. Further information about the testing programme can be found here. We continue to work with our colleagues at ACRE and have produced a range of resources to help and support you as you work through the process of reopening. The information sheet with advice and guidance on reopening has recently been updated in line with the latest government advice and can be found here. The government has also announced a further round of support grants from 1st April entitled Restart Grants. This funding is to help and support organisations over the coming weeks as we ease further out of lockdown. The guidance states that if you have already been receiving COVID support grants there is no need to reapply, but further details can be found here. Over the next few weeks and months, as the government implements further steps within the recovery plan and the restrictions are slowly reduced allowing for a wider scope of activities and services that can be delivered, we will continue to provide further information, advice, and guidance to support you in your decision making. In the meantime, our staff team are available to help you understand what the changes may mean for your community building and to provide you with information, advice and support with any queries or concerns you may have. If you have already been in contact with one of our Community Support Team, contact them directly or email info@durhamcommunityaction.org.uk, |
