Updated Covid-19 Guidance for England

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement at the weekend, the Government have confirmed there will be some changes to the way we can deliver Scouting activities within England only. Currently there is no change to guidance for the Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey, if this changes we will communicate with you separately.

Taking effect today, 2 December 2021, the youth sector moves to the Yellow readiness level and the following changes apply:

• Anyone aged 11+ must wear a face covering when indoors, unless they are exempt (and we recommend the use of known visible methods for people to display if they are exempt).

• International travel should be reviewed in line with the latest Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office travel advice with the awareness that the requirements/restrictions may change at any time. This includes being aware of Government restrictions on travel (both within the UK and in the destination nation), checking with insurance providers that appropriate cover is in place given the changing Government restrictions, and that appropriate measures are in place for quarantine upon return. Before going ahead, all international trips must consider how the trip will be delivered in a COVID-19 safe manner and must have appropriate approval from the relevant District or County Commissioner and Executive Committee through the Visits Abroad process.

We don’t know how long these restrictions will last but we will continue to update you via email and our website as things change.

I would ask that you please make sure these changes are communicated to young people, parents, leaders and all of your volunteers. Please be mindful and respect that some people may wish to stay away from Scouts at this time.

Please review and update risk assessments for section meetings, activities and residentials as well as meetings, training, events and social activities for adults to reflect this change and the current readiness level.

Thank you for your continued resilience and positivity as we adapt to this change and for keeping Scouts going wherever you can – we’ve seen how much of a difference returning to face-to-face activities has had for our young people.

Please stay safe and look after each other.

Best wishes,

Sam Morris

Chief Commissioner Of England

Scouts