Covid Update January 5th
Given the uncertainty and the national lockdown that is in place, it is regrettable that we have been required to close the club for club sessions which we have been enjoying for some months.
Below is a summary of the England Athletics guidelines published today;
Following the UK Government’s announcement on Monday 4 January of a new national lockdown, regrettably our guidance for athletics and running must reflect these enforced Covid-19 restrictions across England.
As a result of everyone being required to stay at home, except for specific purposes as outlined by the UK Government’s guidance, the impact on our sport includes the following with immediate effect and until further notice:
- The suspension of all face-to-face indoor and outdoor club / group activity.
- The suspension of all indoor track and field competitions.
- The suspension of all outdoor competitions including track and field, cross country, road, trail, fell and multi-terrain running.
- The suspension of all face-to-face coaches’ and officials’ education.
- The suspension of any other face-to-face club / group training sessions, events, athlete camps, running groups or other social events as well as club committee or other meetings.
- Indoor gyms and facilities will remain closed.
The full details can be found at https://www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-2021/
England Athletics has reviewed 1:1 coaching activities and they have confirmed that 1:1 coaching is allowed to take place providing certain guidelines are followed. This is aimed specifically at over 18’s, however under 18’s and vulnerable adults for safeguarding reasons require greater awareness, but can still take place.
In summary;
- 1:1 coaching is permitted
- The coaching must be outdoors
- Risk assessment is required with particular focus on under 18’s and vulnerable adults.
- Coaching ONLY 1:1, not mutable adults from same household
- Parents and/or support workers of under 18’s and vulnerable adults are exempt from gathering limits
The fortnightly challenges have been received extremely well so these will start shortly and considering the number of runners wanting to complete the ring road run then perhaps one of those event might indeed be that.
Everyone please take care, stay safe and keep moving.
Robert Richards – Head Coach Okehampton Running Club.
Risk Assessment