Members update briefing May 17th to June 21st

[Mark Ward]

In order to recommence climbing meets on the 13th April we issued a briefing note to all members setting out what individuals needed to do in order to ensure that meets were held in a way which was compliant with the guidance issued by the BMC. That note covered the period 12th April to 17th May after which it was expected that there would be changes to government guidance and subsequently BMC guidelines.

We have reviewed government guidelines applicable to the period 17th May to 21st June,the current guidance from Sport England and the most up to date guidance and risk assessment from the BMC ( which is our governing body). At the time of writing there have been no significant changes to the conditions which are placed on us with respect to holding meets, in particular there has been no relaxation of the rules regarding car sharing . On the plus side we should be able to sit inside for our post meet beer at long last.

As a reminder I have copied the original briefing note below, these requirements are now expected to remain in place until 21st June after which we hope we will be able to operate without any formal constraints.

Original briefing reads:
Although the risks of spreading and contracting COVID-19 when walking, scrambling or climbing outdoors are relatively low, they do exist. By taking a few simple actions that risk can be further reduced.
Meet participants are reminded to act in such a way as to minimise the risks to themselves, others attending the meet, and members of the public, of either contracting or passing on the virus. Please stick to the following simple rules:
– DO NOT attend the meet if you have, or suspect you may have, the virus, share a household with someone who has the virus or COVID symptoms, or if anyone in your household has been told to self-isolate/quarantine.
– Do not car-share with anyone who is not a member of your household/support bubble.
– During the meet respect social distancing – allow people adequate space, keeping 2 metres apart wherever possible.
– Carry hand-sanitiser and use it frequently especially after touching gates/stiles, and before and after routes when climbing.
– Do not share equipment, food or drink. Where this is unavoidable, e.g. when a second removes protection placed by the leader, remember to avoid touching your face, and hand-sanitise as soon as possible.
– Remember that there is an infection risk associated with putting gear in the mouth whilst placing and clipping gear.
– Stay within your competency levels, this is not the time to be pushing your limits. Take especial care to ease back in if you did not walk, climb or scramble as much as usual last year.
– If you or anyone in your household develops COVID or if you are instructed to self-isolate/quarantine within 14 days after the meet, you must inform the meet leader or a club official to facilitate contact tracing of other people who were in contact with you.

Best Regards
Mark

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