19 July "Freedom Day"
Guidance given to volunteers:
caution, consent and mutual respect

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The Government has stated that while cases are high and rising, everybody needs to continue to act carefully and remain cautious when Covid restrictions are eased on 19 July . So what does this mean for the Good Neighbours?

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We have looked carefully at all our areas of operation and have aimed to balance the needs of our clients and our desire to help them, with keeping everyone as safe as possible. With this in mind, we plan to resume all our usual activities from 19 July, however we ask you to consider carefully the specific circumstances you find yourself in and to act cautiously, taking appropriate precautions (see below). It is important that both you and your client feel comfortable with the level of protective measures, and that you respect each other's requests or expectations.

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Please always check that you and your client are both symptom free, and that you haven't been in close contact with someone with Covid. In addition, we'd like to make these suggestions:

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When you're indoors with your client and/or others
Please give consideration to the following:

• wearing a face covering, especially in crowded places such as shops

• avoiding close contact where possible, minimising proximity and duration

• letting fresh air in

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When you're travelling in a car with your client
Please continue with the following:

• wearing a face covering, unless you have an exemption

• lowering the windows

• sitting with your client diagonally behind you where possible

• not accompanying your client into their appointment

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For jobs that are booked by our Duty Officers, there is an opportunity for them to raise this topic with clients when bookings are made, but it is important that we all individually discuss and clarify appropriate precautions with our clients. If you are unsure about what is appropriate, we ask you to err on the side of caution. 

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We will continue to review and update this advice if any new information or guidance becomes available.

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Many thanks for your dedication to the Good Neighbours and please don't hesitate to contact me or your Section Leader if you have any questions or concerns as we move into this new phase. 

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Jane Burstow
Chairman

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