Dear All
We are writing to you all today as there has been a significant number of questions regarding how Your choice social centre will be operating post the 19th of July 2021. I am sorry it has taken time for us to officially respond but we are still waiting for the full up to date guidance for day service provisions.
In the meantime, the following has been taken into consideration.
Although legal duties under the coronavirus act will be lifted on the 19.7.21, the onus has moved to organisations and individuals to provide a safe environment for members and staff. As an organisation we still have significant health and safety responsibilities in relation to the coronavirus. We are also very aware that a lot of our members fall within the extremely clinically vulnerable or clinically vulnerable groups.
Norfolk county council are expecting a phased return to full service by September 2021, unless there are any significant changes.
Therefore, our current covid risk assessment will remain in place.
We ask all staff and members to continue to undergo weekly Testing regimes
We ask that anyone with Covid 19 symptoms does not attend the centre, acquires a PCR covid test, notifies the centre of the result and obtains further guidance.
Everyone follows track and trace guidance.
Staggered start and finish times will remain in place
Health checks will be carried out prior to entry to building
Only essential visitor’s contractors allowed on site, in line with company policy a negative covid test within 72 hours of visit will need to be seen by staff.
Bubble groups will remain in place for us to manage contacts, though some of these bubbles may be adapted, increased. Some rooms within the building that are not main bubble rooms can now be accessed by other Bubbles to increase the activities on offer. You will have noticed that some outings have recommenced. Outings will be too well-ventilated areas, places we can ensure social distancing from other groups, mainly outside making the most of what summer in Norfolk can offer. Outings will be discussed with members, parents, and carers prior to going ahead. We will not be accessing public transport in line with government guidance. If using company vehicles windows will be opened to increase ventilation, members may be encouraged to wear a face mask where appropriate.
Staff team will continue to wear face masks in line with PPE guidance for domiciliary care (day centre guidance has not been updated yet and this is the nearest to the support we offer)
Additional cleaning regimes will remain in place so staff will still require the additional times to ensure this is completed to a high standard.
We would like to encourage you all to have both of your covid vaccinations if you are yet to do so. Also, to take up the offer of a booster vaccination, with phase one expected to commence in September.
If you would like to discuss any of the above points, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will ensure we contact you if there are any significant changes. I apologise if this is not what people wanted to hear, but we are following our duty of care to keep members and staff safe during these challenging times.
Thank you for your continued support, understanding and co-operation.