COVID 19 Risk Assessment

During this transition period after Covid restrictions, we understand that it will take some time to adjust to gathering together.  With God’s help, let’s be patient with one another and “love one another with a brotherly affection.  Outdo one another in showing honour” (Romans 12:10).  We understand that for those with health concerns, coming back in person is not at present an option—we support you in this decision.  Please let us know how we can encourage and minister to you.

• People are encouraged not to attend services if they are feeling unwell.
• When and where necessary, windows and doors can be open during the gathering in the main hall and meetings in rooms at the back of the church. 
• Hand sanitizer is provided at the entrances to the church and throughout the building, and people are encouraged to make use of it.
• Relevant signage reminding of the need for high levels of hygiene will remain around the church building, especially in the toilets and in areas where food/refreshments may be handled.
• So that people can be seated where they are comfortable with the possible risk, seating will be available in two different areas (an arrangement to be reviewed with the passage of time): 
  • One column with pews distanced from each other for those happy to continue wearing face covering and keeping physically distanced; and
  • Two columns and the balcony for those happy to not wear face covering or keep physically distanced.
  • For those who still want to distance but do not want to wear face coverings please sit with those who are not wearing face coverings.
• Should help be required, the stewards are available to help direct you to the seating area you prefer.
• To restrict transmitting airborne particles, no music will play before or after the service to restrict people raising their voices. 
• For those who are unable to join us, the worship services will continue to be livestreamed at least during this transition period. 
  • To avoid being seen on camera, people are advised to sit toward the back of the church or on the balcony.
• Attenders are encouraged to ask others before initiating physical touch (e.g., hand shaking or hugging).
• To avoid the assumption that people without a mask are comfortable or able to sit close, attenders are to ask before sitting close to others.
• Singing is encouraged for everyone present.
• In times of communion, people are given the option of bringing their own bread and wine.
• Provision to make online donations are available, and bags for offerings are placed at the entrances for anyone not wanting to handle the bags that are handed round during the service.
• At the close of the service, those expressing caution and a desire to limit interactions are given the opportunity to leave the building straight away, while we encourage everyone who would like to, to maintain the unity of the church family through intentional fellowship about spiritual matters that impact regular life.
• If anyone shows symptoms of Covid during their time in the building, they will be taken to the “Woody room”, where there is PPE equipment and space to be distanced from others. Emergency help will be called for as appropriate. Other attenders will be informed about this and they will be asked to take tests as appropriate.
• Regular cleaning takes place during the week, to mitigate any risk from touch points.

 

(November 2021)